2. Get ahead in planning.
If you have a target start date, then write one lesson per week during the three weeks prior. If you can start earlier, do so. This will help you know where you’re going. Plus, it will help you explain the big picture to students.
3. Don’t try to do it all yourself.
You could open the Bible, pick a book, and just go for it. But that may be biting off more than you can chew. I find at least one good commentary on the book and read as I go. This helps with explanation and application.
4. Do the hard work.
The first time can be difficult, but do the hard work. Spend time preparing and studying. It’s worth it on a personal level and for your group. Writing a Bible study gets easier as you do it more often. I try to write one extra Bible lesson per week so I can get ahead.
Where do I start?
- First, pick a favorite. Is your favorite book of the Bible a reasonable length? Does it cover some topics you’d like to discuss with your youth? Then start there. You’ll probably already have a working knowledge of the book. Plus, you’ll enjoy it, and your enthusiasm will shine through to kids.
- Second, pick something short. If you can’t go with a favorite, try something relatively short. Then you’ll all feel a sense of accomplishment in a short time. Good starting places include Ruth, Jonah, Philippians, and 1 John.
To read part two of this article, click here: How to Teach Through a Book of the Bible (part 2)
