Question: Our church has always valued having every Bible study class using the same LifeWay curriculum. But we have one teacher that wants to do his own thing.
Answer: LifeWay Bible study material encourages “open classes” that anyone can attend on any week and not feel like they have missed weeks of previous study. The material is excellent, and you could make it a policy that all teachers use the curriculum that is provided.
For the teacher who wants to do his own thing, consider a different format. Perhaps he could teach a discipleship class, often referred to as a “closed class,” which requires individual training books or materials. Regular weekly attendance is also more necessary in this kind of class. Explain the difference between the two types of learning settings, and that the church benefits when every teacher is on the same page.
Slog along?
Question: It took over two years for me to preach through 1 Samuel. Some people loved it, but a vocal few disliked such a long period in one book. I want to take on 2 Samuel, but the naysayers have me wondering.
Answer: Expository preaching on any book in the Bible is an excellent way to help a congregation get a better understanding of Scripture, especially if you are able to point out practical life applications in your teaching. However, you might consider presenting an entire book as a “once-a-month” special study. People who are interested will attend and invite others, and you’ll have Sunday mornings to address current issues and other doctrinal matters that the congregation may also need. You will accomplish both things without feeling tied down to just one particular book.
Pat Pajak is IBSA’s associate executive director for evangelism. Send questions for Pat to IllinoisBaptist@IBSA.org.