Publicly teaching the word is a very serious undertaking. Attendant to this exercise can be both much good and much evil, depending.

Public Teachers A pertinent warning: “1: Be not many of you teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment, 2: For in many things we all stumble, If any stumbleth not in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also” (Jas. 3, ASV, cp. I Tim. 1: 7).

In this study, we shall particularly look at Bible class teachers and consider some areas that often need emphasizing and fine tuning.

Reflections on Bible Classes Have you ever given serious thought to the typical Bible class arrangement seen in most churches of Christ (not talking about “Sunday School”)? Do such classes constitute the “assembly” and if not, how should they be considered?

Reflections on Bible Classes Some have practiced the class circumstance (various classes according to age, gender, etc.) and in this situation, have served the Lord’s Supper (cp. I Cor. 11: 18, 20, 23-34).

Reflections on Bible Classes It is apparent that some circumstances that are viewed as having all physically together were not such (cp. Acts 2: 46). Bible classes serve as an expedient (cp. I Tim. 3: 15 but not a substitute for “the assembly”).

Reflections on Bible Classes Not a free-for-all think tank.

Reflections on Bible Classes Not for the promotion of personal agendas.

Reflections on Bible Classes Not for doing what cannot be done in the assembly.

Reflections on Bible Classes Must be organized.

Reflections on Bible Classes Kindness and regard must prevail.

Reflections on Bible Classes Opportunity for detail study….

Reflections on Bible Classes As an expedient, Bible classes must promote good, growth, and unity as opposed to ill feeling, infantilism, and disunity.

Public Teachers God has always had qualifications. Those who publicly teach are setting an example (cp. I Tim. 4: 12). 1. Must have some maturity (Heb. 5: 11-14). 2. “Faithful men” (2 Tim. 2: 2).

Public Teachers Some understood requisites: 1. Be present (notify when cannot be present). 2. Be on time. 3. Know lesson or study. 4. Know students. 5. Encourage and commend. 6. Address any problems. 7. Adapt class books. 8. Maintain order in the class.

Public Teachers Conclusion: While not necessarily a requirement, most local churches have a Bible class arrangement. As an expedient, such an arrangement can be beneficial. However, such a circumstance needs to be monitored and any needed improvement put into place. We must remember, though, Bible classes are not a substitute for parents teaching their children at home!