Just as it’s helpful to know something about the culture and history of Jane Austin before you read Pride and Prejudice, it’s helpful to know the culture and history of each book of the Bible. These resources will give you the big picture.
Bible Study 201
“Has God said?” The role of personal revelation in Bible teaching
You’ve probably heard a teacher, pastor or preacher say something to the effect “and then God told me.” What’s up with that? What role does personal experience and/or personal revelation play in Bible study? For me, the bottom line is: Scripture takes precedence over emotions and experience; and teachers ought to strive for accuracy and precision in their language. Here are the guidelines I use when teaching.
Marks of False Teachers
A vital part of your Bible study arsenal is learning to recognize false teachers. Here are three interesting lists — both modern and classic — on how to discern a true teacher from a false teacher. Notice the similarities.
How to format teaching notes
Ultimately, how you handle your speaking notes will depend on personal preference. As you experiment, here are some ideas that may help you find your style and prepare like a pro.
4 people you need to improve your teaching
One speaker claimed everyone needs 3 people to become a better writer. His list applies to Bible teachers — with one addition.
Becoming a Bible teacher
So you’d like to teach the Bible? How do you get started? How do you decide if Bible teaching is your calling? Here’s my advice for aspiring teachers.
When to tell a story
Teaching through stories is increasingly popular. But there is a downside. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls.
Plagiarism and Bible Teaching
You’ve probably heard the joke that the greatest insult you can give a Bible teacher is that your work is both original and good. Why is that funny? The part that’s original is not good, and the part that’s good is not original. The goal of Bible study is to be right, not original.
08 James 3:1-12 Warnings to Teachers
Since Bible teachers presume to explain the word of God to others, James warns them to seriously consider the responsibility before seeking the job.
Why I love the Bible and hate sermons
I can spend 20 hour a week in Bible study without complaint but I’d rather shovel rocks than sit through most 20 minute sermons. Transformation without information has all the nourishment of whipped cream.
