When company comes in unexpectedly during a Bible study, sometimes I go ahead with the study as planned, and sometimes I change the subject. In some cases, going ahead with the study embarrasses the reader. I cannot always be sure whether she wishes her friends to know how much she is interested in our message. Then, too, the visitor has not had what leads up to the subject which is being presented, and may therefore become prejudiced, or may bring up objections that confuse or consume time. If my reader has invited in a neighbor or friend, I usually say, "You know we were going to study about such and such a subject. Would you rather I would go over something else?"
On one occasion the reader's pastor came in unexpectedly. She explained that we were having a Bible study. He said, "Don't let me interrupt." I told him that we were nearly through. Then I read a few more texts, we talked a little, and after that I left. Another time a minister came for the express purpose of stopping the study. My reader told me he was coming, and that he did not approve of her taking the studies. I explained that my time was well filled, and I would like to go on with the subject if she did not object. The minister came in when I was about half through, and told me to go right ahead. But after I had read two texts, he stopped me. So I said, "If you don't mind, I should like to finish this outline of the subject. Then if there is time, I shall be glad to study with you what the Bible says; that is all I can give you to answer any objections."
Several times he attempted to stop me, but in each case I put him off. When we were through, I explained that I had only a few moments left, and that it would not be possible to make plain anything he had asked without taking more time than I had. Then I said, "Of course, if you would be willing to read anything on the subject, I shall be glad to give you something." He declined.
I gave one Bible study with a youngster in my lap, another sitting in a chair by me, while the mother held a third. However, I didn't write down any references that time! I said to one reader not long ago, "Would Norma go to bed early, do you suppose? I see that you cannot concentrate on the studies." The mother said she had tried to get her to bed, but had not succeeded. I suggested that if she did not take a nap in the afternoon, she might go to sleep. This worked. Next time Norma was asleep.
In another home there were several children who were quite bothersome, so I took along a picture book and gave it to them to look at. Often I have given them a pencil and paper with which to write or draw during the study, or something to play with that will keep them quiet. Interruptions are frequently trying, but can usually be overcome.
Washington, D. C.
