When I was a little boy my parents took me to church and Sunday school. It was thru preaching and teaching that God spoke to me and I received Jesus as my Savior. I’m thankful for the dedicated teachers that opened the Scriptures to me. Once again, the Spirit impressed upon me the importance of the Bible ministries that we have here in the church and the dedicated people that God has placed here. I think they are more than important for spiritual growth and here’s some reasons why.
Sunday school provides a structure for teaching God’s Word. Preaching isn’t enough. A systematic teaching of the Scriptures - not just preaching (Acts 5:42) needs to occur through all age levels.
Sunday school gears Bible teaching to a specific age group (Deuteronomy 31:12). It means a wiggly four-year-old can discover great Biblical truth by acting out a Bible story, completing dot-to-dot pictures, and singing fun songs. During the same hour, adults may discuss a variety of topics: relationships - responses to daily crises – discipleship - trust in God. Both age groups leave with specific applications for the week.
Sunday school mobilizes and trains people for leadership. It’s difficult to say who benefits more, the teacher or the student. The teacher’s Bible knowledge grows… his or her life is changed… a stretching occurs as leadership skills are developed. Students learn and are challenged.
Sunday school is convenient. With the work, family and activity schedules of many church members, it’s easier to come to church one hour earlier or leave one hour later than to arrange another night out during the week.
Sunday school leads the church in prayer and relationships. Prayer is directed toward the specific needs of the class members. The class also has an opportunity to respond to specific needs. Fellowship and informal conversations flow easily in small groups where people know your name and your needs.
Sunday school lets the church do all the above with consistency. Sunday school is one of the most consistent programs in the church. Sunday after Sunday its dedicated staff leads the church in this most important ministry.
Think about it – it’s an opportunity to connect with each other and grow in the Lord.