To give a Bible study successfully, it is first of all necessary to have a definite out line. This may be either written or fixed in the memory. The subject to be covered by the outline having been chosen, it is well to make a thorough survey of every text on the subject, choosing for the outline such texts as most clearly state the points of truth to be presented. The number of texts necessary for a complete outline will, of course, vary according to the subject and the method of teaching, but usually the outline need not embrace more than from ten to sixteen texts. The main point to be observed in making the outline is the consistent arrangement of texts, so that one point of truth follows another in logical order. Each text should so clearly state the point that there can be no uncertainty as to its meaning.
The introductory text is very important. It should make emphatic the subject under consideration. For example, in the outline on "The Second Coming of Christ," use as the first text John 14:1-3, "I will come again"; or Hebrews 9:28, "Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time." From such definite statements, proceed in the outline with the how and the when of the second coming of Christ, making the texts follow in logical order and form a complete presentation of the subject.
Digging Deep and Preparing Thoroughly
Preparation for giving a Bible study embraces not only sufficient study to produce a satisfactory outline but extensive study and all-round information. We must be prepared to give much more information than we intend to present in connection with the study. It is the reserve supply of knowledge on any subject that enables one to speak with confidence and with convincing emphasis. Observe this statement: "If you take upon you the sacred responsibility of teaching others, you take upon you the duty of going to the bottom of every subject you seek to teach." Testimonies on Sabbath School Work, p. 59. In order to make our Bible studies interesting, and to keep ourselves from settling into a rut, we must study continually, as well as bring into our teaching variety and individuality.
Another essential element of preparation is the selection of appropriate helps in making the truth plain, such as charts, diagrams, and occasional illustrations. In every possible way we should seek to appeal to the eye as well as to the ear, if we would make the most lasting impression. But we must be sure that we under stand our chart, diagram, or illustration, and can make its use effective. Our "helps" must be such as will drive the point of truth into the depth of the mind; they must serve as nails in a sure place, not simply as interesting items to please the people.
Making Our Readers Feel at Ease
When we first enter a home for the purpose of giving a Bible study, it is the usual experience that we find an attitude of uncertainty on the part of the people. They do not know just exactly what we purpose to do, nor what is expected of them; hence it requires a great deal of tact on the part of the Bible instructor to make everyone feel at ease, and to proceed with the study in a natural way.
First of all, take a survey of the Bibles in evidence. If the study is with one person, of course only one Bible is needed; but where there is a class of several, each should have a Bible, and each should read the texts as announced, all taking turns in reading aloud. Unless this plan is followed, the real force of the Bible study is lost. Because it requires patience and tact to help people find the texts, some Bible instructors prefer to give the reference and then read the text themselves. But by following this plan the Bible study really re solves itself into a sermonet or talk, and many of the important points in the study are lost, whereas if the person himself reads the text, a deeper impression is made upon his mind.
System Yet Variety in Teaching
There should be system in announcing the texts. Experience in dealing with minds unaccustomed to the study of the Bible leads to the plan of announcing first the name of the book in which the text is found, then the chapter of the book, and last of all the specific verse in the chapter. In giving a Bible study, some workers precede the giving of the text by a question to be answered by the text, and others precede the text by a statement of what the text will reveal. I like both methods, and use both in nearly every Bible study I give. Variety is afforded, and sometimes a statement makes a point stand out more clearly than does a question. Be sure that after the verse is read the reader sees in it the answer to your question, or recognizes that your statement regarding it is verified. It is often the case that a person will read a text of Scripture, and yet not have any clear idea of what it states. It is the duty of the Bible instructor tactfully to review the text and draw forth from the reader an expression as to his comprehension of the truth stated. It is not the most inspiring experience to give Bible studies to a person week after week without receiving any indication of what he is thinking about in connection with the truth presented. At the close of each study it is a good plan to sum up in a few words the facts that have been presented and secure the readers' assent to the truth contained in that study.
Mastering the Situation
Sometimes we find ourselves associated with people who want to talk too much, and consequently there is danger of failure in conducting the study in an effective, connected manner. Herein lies a test of tact and patience. To allow oneself to be sidetracked by irrelevant questions or general talk results in confusion. If you do not keep your subject well in hand, you will find yourself floundering around like a drowning man, catching first at this thing and then at that in the effort to get back onto solid ground for definite study. When questions are asked that have no bearing on the subject announced, and that if answered would lead entirely away and make the study a failure, it is best to control the situation by saying that in due time the studies will lead to consideration of that particular point, and that if the questioner will wait until that time, the matter will be more easily understood.
As to the length of time required for giving a Bible study, it has been found as a rule that from thirty-five to forty-five minutes is ample time in which to give a clear presentation of any subject.
In my experience I have been led to conclude that it is better to offer prayer at the close of the study than at the beginning. My reasons are these: It tends to impress upon the mind the importance of the study, and makes the lesson seem more forceful and solemn because we have asked God's blessing upon it. It also prepares the way for leaving the home quickly and quietly always the best plan to follow. With a few pleasant words of farewell and planning for the next study, leave the reader with the impression that you have a very important work to do and must hasten on to the next appointment.
It is well to remember that the Bible instructor should never try to give a Bible study on a subject in which she is not interested, or a subject that she does not understand. If the topic is considered important by experienced Bible teachers, then the personal worker should build up real enthusiasm for it. Dodging a difficult piece of teaching is not the way out; study into the subject well enough to master it. The result will be that such a study will eventually be come one of your best presentations.
