Do you want group participants to learn more from your Bible study experience together? Would you like for them to remember more of what was learned? Do you want them to enjoy the time together even more? Would you like to increase the likelihood that attenders will obey the truth of the lesson? How have you worked to increase lesson participation?
I hope the answer to the first four questions is a resounding “yes!” There are many actions you can take that will contribute to learning more, remembering more, and increased enjoyment and likelihood of obedience. Prayer, preparation, a intentionality are three of those actions. But the single-greatest action you can take as a teacher is increasing the participation of your group members in the lesson.
Before Class Actions to Increase Lesson Participation
What can you do between group sessions to raise interest, involvement, and retention during group time? I would love to hear what you do. Leave a Reply at the end of this post to share what works for you.
Four of the many things I have found helpful include the following:
- ask the group to read the lesson, scripture or verse
- develop deeper relationships and trust
- ask a question at the end of the previous session or by email, text, or social media
- make assignments.
During Class Actions to Increase Participation
What can you do during group sessions to increase participation? Again, share your experiences by pressing Leave a Reply. Many actions can help. Here are a few that can help:
- ask questions about the scripture, lesson, or life
- ask for volunteers to help with parts of the group session plan
- make assignments to subgroups of the group (2, 3, 4, or more)
- call on individuals who are not afraid of public speaking to pray, read scripture, answer questions, etc.
- call for reports of assignments made between sessions
- use creative teaching methods to connect with the unique learning style preferences of participants
- listen carefully and full of care.
The Results of Taking These Actions
Which of these actions could help you to increase participation? Consistently take these actions. When you do so, participants will be more likely to learn, remember what was learned, apply the truth to their lives, obey the truth, and share the truth with others. And enjoyment of the experience will increase the likelihood that participants will invite others to join you and God for your group Bible study session.
Take the risk. The worst teaching method is the the one you use all the time. Our God is a Creator and we honor Him with our creativity. Give Him your best in teaching, learning, and obeying His Word. Get everyone involved: one step at a time, one session at a time, one person at a time. Make disciples. Be revolutionary!
Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash
This is a good one! It can be so hard to encourage kids to participate without making them feel too “called out” especially if you have a shy group. Thanks for the tips!