In last month’s editorial, we suggested a healthy midweek Bible class indicates a healthy ecclesia and we proposed a reasonable resolution for this year would be to attend Bible class. Since then, we have received a number of reasons why those able to attend stay away from such a class. Each of the reasons (excuses?) is worth considering, especially since each of them can be remedied by taking reasonable action.
We don’t have one!
Some ecclesias do not have a midweek Bible class. The reasons vary: members are so scattered it is not practical to all get together; a class died out for lack of interest; we don’t have our own hall and no home is big enough for the class; we’re too small and there’s no one to lead it.
A reasonable solution to most of these situations is to have a Bible class in the home, or several homes, which considers the daily readings.
This approach has several advantages. If an ecclesia is scattered, several classes can be held in different geographic areas. With each considering the readings, all will be studying the same material. Furthermore, by discussing the readings together, all are encouraged to make them a matter of daily habit and opportunity is given to discuss questions that have occurred as members have done the readings on their own. Two people is all that is needed to make such a session worthwhile, so small numbers or lack of a leader is no problem.
In our own Bible class, we do the readings during summer months and have found they stimulate as much interest as any subject.
It’s too hard on our children
In some school districts, classes start so early in the morning that getting home late from a Bible class can be a problem for the youngsters. If that is the case, an earlier start to the class may be the answer.
When excessive homework is a chronic reason for missing Bible class, priorities may need to be re-evaluated. The way our society is organized, many adult disciples find they have to make a choice between time on the job and time for ecclesial activities. We’ll be doing our children an eternal favor if we teach them, from an early age, that time spent in ecclesial activities is eventually worth much more than time spent pursuing top grades or top wages.
In some cases, the solution is to have kid’s classes concurrent with the adult Bible class. In our local area, this has proved so successful that, 20 years later, the kid’s classes are the premier feature of Bible class night. Much to the chagrin of some parents, they have to attend Bible class in order to transport their children, who love the midweek activities.
I don’t get anything out of it
But do you give anything to it? Isn’t the whole spirit and example of Christ to give rather than get? The apostle Paul recalled the words of the Lord Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” and himself led a life of giving for the sake of others. And what do we give Jesus in comparison to what he gives us?
What we get out of something should hardly ever be our consideration; it’s what we can give that counts. Anybody can give to a Bible class just by being there. What’s more helpful, of course, is if we can ask an insightful question (even if it’s passed through the nearest brother) or make some useful comments. In one case we know of, a key member of the class is an 80-year old sister who arrives early for cheerful conversation and provides refreshments every week. She has been doing this for years as her way of giving what she can.
The class is boring
Then make it interesting! As was just noted, ask some questions or make some comments. If the subject matter is the problem, suggest a change.
Sometimes those running the class need to cater more to the members than they would like to do. A new subject may have been started that has not worked out too well. Rather than struggle through to the end, drop it and start something else, or alternate between two different study themes.
Maybe the format needs to be changed. There is nothing mandatory about a 45 minute talk by one speaker. A presider who guides discussion may be better, or perhaps two or more presenters on alternating subjects may work out (such as with the “Reading the Bible Effectively” seminars). And different formats may be rotated with one another.
The most likely solution to a “boring” class, however, is to become interested in the subject matter. After all, it is a Bible class and the reason for our boredom may be lack of sufficient interest in the Bible. A step to curing the problem is to study the subject matter in advance so that we can follow the consideration with knowledge of various aspects of the topic.
I have a problem with Bro. X
One brother honestly said he wasn’t attending because he didn’t want to meet up with a certain brother. Another brother gave as his reason the fact that every time he opened his mouth a certain brother immediately contradicted him.
What a pity! A primary purpose of the ecclesial Bible class is to give us midweek association with beloved brothers and sisters in Christ. If personality problems are keeping us from this blessing, than let us get them straightened out.
Recently, we were asked, “In such circumstances, who should make the first move?” The answer is obvious. If I’m involved, I should make the first move and the second and the third toward harmonizing relationships. A condition of strain between brethren is more than a problem — it is an opportunity to work on developing an attribute we must have if we are to be welcomed into the kingdom of God: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matt. 5:9).
It’s too much of a rush
One brother evoked much sympathy when he described what a rush it was to make the Bible class. His commute was over an hour; on Bible class night he had to run in the door, gulp down supper and dash out for the class. He was thinking of dropping out of that activity. An hour later, our sympathy evaporated when his son commented how nice it was that his dad could always get off early to make his little league games. Support of family activities is important but certainly no more important than support of the activities of God’s family.
Right priorities
There are other reasons (excuses?) but nearly all have reasonable solutions if our priorities and our interests are where they should be. The midweek Bible class is an important part of ecclesial life. If there is none, start one. If there is one, if at all possible, attend it.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One