In the multiplicity of duties that come to the attention of the Bible instructor she may occasionally be called on to prepare a group of jun:ors for baptism. Some show a real aptitude in instructing this age group, and conduct classes for them rather regularly. It is not always teaching experience that qualifies one to handle the particular problems of the juniors.
A Bible instructor not too far remote from junior thinking often succeeds admirably, especially if she is a trained Master Guide. It is always well for the worker to approach the responsibility understandingly and not too rigidly. It pays to modernize our thinking as we deal with these girls and boys, and then to make suitable adjustments to the times in which we live. Bible instructors usually spend their time with adults, and their thinking, argumentation, and appeal are too often beyond the junior level. Although love for youth is an essential qualification in winning their interest, it is not all that is necessary.
There is no reason, however, why any alert worker cannot gain skill in dealing with this interesting age. Bible instructors do well to acquaint themselves with this problem, since the youth of Adventist as well as non-Adventist homes comprise our most precious heritage. Since our usual procedure in soul-winning work is through the channel of indoctrination, we are most apt to decide that this must be our sole approach for winning juniors. The fundamentals of Christian faith and present truth must be taught, but these doctrines must be exceedingly simplified to be appreciated by the child mind. There should be an emphasis on the principles of kindness, honesty, and virtue.
Stories and examples interesting and applicable to this age level will make their right appeal and provide the proper setting for prayer, which should become a part of each lesson. The Junior Standard of Attainment Course is most suitable for indoctrinating those of junior age, and some of our Bible instructors have prepared their own brief series of lessons suitable for this type of instruction. One will observe that children who have had the privilege of attending church school, where Bible instruction is a regular part of the daily work, are usually well versed in doctrines. It is then not necessary to spend much time duplicating the efforts of the faithful church school teacher. It will suffice for the Bible instructor to review briefly those points essential in an understanding of conversion.
The Baptismal Class
The room where the class is conducted should be well lighted and ventilated. The Bible instructor should have enough disciplinary and teaching ability to maintain good order. Instruction should always be given in a pleasant tone of voice and in an appealing way. It is helpful to create an air of expectancy and to vary one's methods of instruction. The class period should not be prolonged, but have a regular time for beginning and closing. When the lesson has been taught, it is not wise to let the children linger around for the purpose of adding special "preachments" to some who may seem to need them.
Handle this with the entire group, or else call at the child's home where matters may be considered privately. Besides keeping in close touch with the pastor, there should be a thorough understanding with the Missionary Volunteer leader and church school teacher as to your plans and the nature of your instruction. When the group is ready for baptism, share with these associate workers the joy of the combined harvest. Remember that you have merely helped them to climax their work for the youth of the church. Such an attitude will show the right spirit on your part and will avoid any unpleasant misunderstandings.
