The destination you choose for your Sunday School is also important. If I asked 100 people on the street what Sunday School is, at least 75% would probably answer “Bible study” or “something for kids.” How would you answer? Have you ever thought about Sunday School as a strategy rather than an activity (Bible study) or a time slot (Sunday morning)?
If Sunday School is viewed as an activity, Bible study becomes the destination or goal. The teacher uses the Bible and teaching methods as the vehicles that help “deliver” the learner to the destination of Bible study.
In contrast, consider this definition:
Sunday School is the foundational strategy in a local church for leading people to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and for building Great Commission Christians through open Bible study groups that engage people in evangelism, discipleship, fellowship, ministry, and worship.
If Sunday School is viewed as a strategy for bringing people to Christ and building Christians,
then Bible study through open groups becomes the vehicle. An open group means
the curriculum and the attitude of class members allow new people to come in at any point; they do not have to wait until the next study topic begins. Helping learners become engaged in evangelism, discipleship, fellowship, ministry, and worship enhances the spiritual growth of both new and long-time Christians.
Use these two train illustrations to talk with your Sunday School leaders about the differences a destination can make. Evaluate what track your Sunday School is on now. Then prayerfully consider leading your church to make Sunday School a strategy.
COMMIT TO THE STRATEGY!
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Marie Clark is Team Leader for the Bible Teaching and Discipling Team of the Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists. She also serves as a volunteer Sunday School Leader in her church, Nall Avenue Baptist Church, Prairie Village, KS.
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