The Power of Conversation

Can you picture the camp fire reflecting on Jesus’ face as He engaged His disciples in conversation? Those conversations transformed the disciples thinking and forged them into the leaders who would change the world. Jesus is our ultimate example of the power of conversation.

Christ’s example of conversation reveals its importance in the transformational work of the Sunday School. This power is revealed through the preschool Sunday School teacher sitting on the floor and revealing that God is love. It is seen in the group interaction of children and youth engaged in their biblical levels of learning.

The power of conversation is especially important to the adult Sunday School class. It is in those biblical conversations that opinions are transformed into biblical truth. It is where ministry needs are shared and discovered. It is a time of conversation with God about the greatest of needs. It is where our attitudes about the church are brought into perspective in a more positive way. Those conversations transform life and prepare us for the challenges of the week ahead.

Conversations help us to identify biblically the purpose of the class. Are we growing spiritually? Are we fellowshipping and building community? Are we ministering to those connected to the class? Are we reaching anyone for Christ? Are we serving? Are we growing closer in our devotion to God? Is my church stronger and a better place to be because our Sunday School class exists?

Conversations with our Sunday School leaders are also critically important in the transformational Sunday School. How can we be more effective in our work? Is there a need for training and improvement? What conversations do we need to have to sharpen our skills and provide the very best for every age group?

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Rick Ellison is in the Office of Leadership/Church Health of the Alabama Baptist Convention State Board of Missions