4 Simple Things Every Bible School Teacher Can Do
It is true that not everyone can, or even should, teach a Bible class (see James 3:1). Some do not have a desire while others do not have the skill.
To be honest, though, more can teach a Bible class than probably think they can!
No matter if you are a seasoned teacher, someone who is nervous every time you walk into class, or someone who is not sure you can do it, there are some things you can do to make your class a wonderful environment.
Whatever your “skill level” of teaching, here are 4 things you can do.
- Be Early. It is a great encouragement to children (and parents) to walk up to a classroom with a teacher already there, as opposed to walking into an empty–and maybe dark–classroom. It builds trust in the teacher and may give you a little extra time to get to know the heart of a student.
- Smile. You are getting to teach the Bible! Isn’t that reason enough to have a smile on your face? For a lot of children, though, your smile may be a rare sight. But a regular smile will make a difference because it conveys that you love doing this and that learning the Bible is an enjoyable thing.
- Listen. While teaching is certainly about dispensing information, it is also important to listen to your students. For one thing, their insight–even from very small children–is often a powerful teacher. But also, listening displays respect. What is said might be “on point” or “off the wall,” but your listening ear will make a dramatic difference for each student.
- Study. Every teacher–unless called upon to sub at literally the last moment–has time to at least look over a lesson. You may have a lot of time or a little time, but each moment you spend preparing for a class is time very well-spent. It will show up in your confidence in teaching, your depth and breadth of the information shared, and–as a bonus–in your own personal devotion to God. You will be amazed how much you learn, even if you are studying to teach small children!
No matter how nervous you might be, you can do these four things. If you assume that role, thank you! You are making an eternal difference, and you are worthy of a major dose of gratitude.
Take teaching seriously, and, as you do, you will likely find that you love it more and more as time goes on.
AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
