Sullivan church of Christ – Sullivan, MO
Date: November 21, 2004
Bible Class Etiquette
Ben Justice
It really boggles the mind as to why those who call themselves “Christians” and members of the Lord’s
church neglect the wonderful benefits of Bible class. Sadly, there are some who never attend any of the Bible
classes offered. They are certainly not those who hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matt. 5:6). They
have no desire to “search the scriptures” (Acts 17:11). The Bible describes such folks as “carnally minded,”
not “spiritually minded” (see I Cor. 3:1-3; Rom. 8:6-8). Spiritual immaturity runs rampant in many
congregations because of a neglect to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus (2 Pet. 3:18). On the other
hand, there are those who have a yearning and a longing to learn all of the Word of God they can. As a
result, they will make every effort and sacrifice to attend Bible classes and other classes offered from time to
time. Brethren, this is where we all should want to be. In addition to this point, the Bible clearly teaches
that it is sinful to forsake the appointed times for the flock to assemble (Heb. 10:25).
We should strive to get the most out of our Bible classes. We need to put something into our Bible classes
— for those who put something into the Bible classes are those who get something out of them. I have heard
members of the church say, “I just don’t get anything out of the Bible classes.” It is probably the fact that
they haven’t put anything into them. It is sad to see church members who have their Bible closed throughout
the Bible class. Some seem to be half asleep, day-dreaming, and planning what they will be doing after
services. I wonder why some even both to show up — for it is apparent that they could care less about being
there. Those who get something out of the Bible classes are those who listen attentively, who have their
Bible in hand and open, who closely follow along in their Bible, who ask questions and make worthwhile
comments, and who study at home in preparation for the class.
With these thoughts in mind, before our Bible classes can be productive and conducive to good learning, each
one present must think about Bible class etiquette. In other words, one should always be concerned about
good manners and the proper deportment in the Bible classes. Note the following points:
1.) Be on time. When one comes in late, it disturbs the class. Arriving late means missing out on the first
few minutes of study — usually the most important few minutes because, many times, the foundation for
what is being studied is set forth. Missing out on the first part of class will result in a lack of understanding
of the subject being discussed. I realize that at times things happen and we can’t help but be late. “Life
happens,” as the saying goes. But, what does it say about those who are always habitually late? If people
were as habitually late arriving at work as they are at Bible classes (or worship services), then they would be
fired from their jobs. I believe it shows a real lack of spirituality and a lack of eagerness to want to be at the
services of the church.
2.) Study the material beforehand. Unfortunately, personal Bible study is at an all-time low in the church.
But, just think of the tremendous advantage the study would have to each one who has taken to be time to
prepare at home. The class will certainly be more conducive to good discussion if members would take the
time to do a little personal study.
3.) Speak up and ask questions. If you don’t understand something, then don’t feel ashamed to ask. Asking
questions is how we learn. And, the only stupid question is the one not asked. In asking questions, stay on
the subject at hand. I know that I have encountered many members of the church who ask questions that
have nothing whatsoever to do with the subject at hand. Now, it is good that they want to learn, but it takes
away from the class to get off the subject. Asking questions concerning a different subject in a Bible class is
not the time or place. Also, if a book of the Bible is being studied, then stay with the verses being studied.
Sometimes, we want to skip ahead to the subsequent verses and ask questions about those verses, even
though the class has not yet gotten that far. Wait until the teacher gets to that point. And then, if the
teacher does not address your question(s) on those particular verses, then ask your question(s). Getting off
the subject and jumping ahead detracts from the class and is really poor Bible class etiquette.
4.) To go along with the above point, when making comments and asking questions, don’t try and control the
class. There are some who want to be the teacher. They actually do more talking than the teacher. Allow
the teacher to teach the class, for he is the authority. Also allow others to make comments and ask
questions. Don’t interrupt the teacher while he is in the middle of making a point. Wait until he is finished
or raise your hand. Controlling the class and interrupting is not only poor Bible class etiquette, but it is
quite rude.
5.) Sometimes members have a problem with the class and the material being studied. Being critical of the
class is something that should always be discussed outside of the class and never in the class. We must all
realize that being a Bible class teacher takes a tremendous amount of work and study. Whenever a teacher
is striving to do his best to impart unto us the Word of God, we need to be thankful — no matter what
subject of God’s Word is being studied. Let’s be thankful for those who are willing to spend the time and
energy in personal Bible study so as to teach publicly.
6.) Seek to apply what you have learned from the Bible classes. What good is the class, if you never seek to
make use of the teaching? Also, don’t be afraid to share the truth of God’s word with others.
7.) Last, but certainly not least, the teacher must think about Bible class etiquette. I realize that every
teacher has his own style and method of teaching, but every teacher must strive to present his material in a
clear, competent, and forthright manner so that people can understand it! The teacher must respect the
questions and comments from others. This does not necessarily mean that he will agree with everything that
is said, nor does it mean that he can never refute any error that anyone in the class may espouse. However,
in responding in disagreement over someone’s comments, the teacher ought always to display kindness and
consideration. The teacher should not ever put anyone on the spot in asking questions. Personally, I don’t
ever single any one person out to answer a question. I believe it amounts to rudeness and to poor Bible
class etiquette.
These are some guidelines for Bible class etiquette. Let’s all strive to make our Bible classes a haven for
productive learning in God’s Word!