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Where Were You?

September 2nd, 2008 by Jeremy Sprouse

Where were you when it was time for Bible class? Sleeping in late? Watching TV? Or Waiting to dive into the depths of God’s Word? It is sad that most people do not take advantage of Bible classes. Many feeling like they are boring or useless. These classes are designed to enable us to dive deeper into God’s Word, ask questions, discuss ways we can follow the Bible closer, and encourage each other to grow closer to God. Let us take time to reflect on how we can get more out of this valuable investment.
First, you need to come. No matter how great a class is, you get nothing if you are not there. Not only do you suffer by not coming, but others suffer when you aren’t there. Hebrews 10:25 is often applied to church attendance. The point of this verse, however, goes beyond worship service. It tells us that when we forsake times of assembly (including Bible class), we work against of our goal “to stimulate one another to love and good deeds” (Heb. 10:24). Also, if you have kids you aren’t bringing to class, the damage you cause by not coming is at least doubled. Even when someone else brings them, the message you send is loud and clear: Bible class isn’t important; I have better things to do. Is this the message you want to send to your children and others?
Second, you need to prepare. You’ve heard that you get out what you put in and it’s true for Bible class, just like life. If you have read and studied the topic/ Bible passage, you will be able to follow the teacher’s thoughts better, you will be able to prepare questions to ask, and think of comments to make. Most importantly, you will know if the teacher has strayed from the Bible’s teachings. In Acts 17:11, the Bereans were called “noble-minded” because they searched the Scriptures daily, checking to make sure Paul’s teachings were accurate. Too often we rely on what others say rather than studying God’s Word for ourselves. The Bible is to be our guide, not mere men like preachers or men’s opinions found in commentaries!
Third, you need to contribute. No matter how much the teacher knows about a passage or topic, he does not know it all. Each of us has had different experiences in life that give us insight into the Scriptures. If you share these insights, you add depth and interest to the Bible class. By pooling our thoughts and observations we learn more of God’s Word (cf. Prov. 27:17). You may have questions the teacher did not fully cover or did not explain clearly. Often these questions will be shared by others, but no one speaks up and the question goes unanswered.
By observing these suggestions Bible classes you consider boring may become exciting. Classes you thought useless may become useful. Christians you don’t know may become familiar. Don’t we all want these results? As a congregation, let us take the time to get the most out of our Bible classes.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008 at 11:48 am and is filed under Bulletin Articles.

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