Giving the Lesson:
Engaging Adults in Interactive Bible Study
by Sara Covin Juengst

Miss Alice dutifully took her turn in leading the Bible study. She slowly and carefully read each word in a monotone, including the directions “Pause here for discussion.” When she reached the end of the lesson, she slapped the book closed and announced, “And that’s that for February!” Miss Alice had “given the lesson” and was ready for the real business of the day—Valentine cookies and tea.

I was just a young pastor’s wife when I first attended a Bible study led by Miss Alice, but I knew something was seriously wrong with “giving the lesson” this way. From that time on, my goal in teaching the Bible has been to provide opportunities for both learning and enjoyment, without using methods that are intimidating or threatening.

Are you looking for ways to enrich your presentation of Bible study? Use Sara’s suggestions to make your sessions informative, engaging and enriching. In the May/June 2007 issue, she offers suggestions on what to read ahead of time, what to bring and types of questions to ask.

Call 800/524-2612 or subscribe to Horizons or order the May/June 2007 issue (HZN-07-220; $4 plus shipping).

Sara Covin Juengst is author of the 1996–1997 Horizons Bible study, Encounters with Jesus: The Gospel According to Matthew. She also wrote the Suggestions for Leaders for two Horizons Bible studies—the 1991–1992 study, Tongues of Fire: Power for the Church Today, and the 2000–2001 study, Women and the Word: Studies in the Gospel of John.

Illustration of "Arrival of the King" by Gena Deeds-Page
/The SpiritSource.com

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