Teach it well

I read an article by Kurt Johnston this morning the current issue of Discipleship Journal. “Lessons that teach” emphasized the fact that although there is no magic formula for teaching a successful lesson, there is an evaluation process to take your notes through before teaching the class. I like this.

Is it TRUE?
This is always a key question. When teaching a lesson from Scripture it is easy to throw context out the window to support a point. I need to consider the whole of Scripture.

Is it ENCOURAGING?
There ought to be some movement toward commitment because the hearers have been encouraged in some way. There is not enough affirmation and edification in the world today. It may be hard but it is good.

Is it APPLICABLE?
One church I know has as one of its core values: “Irrelevance is Irreverence”. There needs to be a connection to real life in each lesson.

Is it CLEAR?
There should be no question as to what the lesson was about. We remember so little of what we hear anyway, so let’s make sure there is application of logic. Bring it down to a level that all can understand. I usually find that if the class is not understanding it, I probably am not understanding it either. I can clarify things I understand.

Is it HUMOROUS?
This is one that works well. If people are laughing and having fun, they will be learning more and comprehending at a higher level. Boring is never an acceptable mode for presentation of the Gospel. Lighten Up!!!!!

By the way, since learning and listening go both directions, these principles apply to both teacher and student. Let’s get excited about the classroom.