As a Precept Bible Study Leader, you do more than lead a discussion—one gathering at a time, you are transforming your community through the life-changing power of God’s Word!
We know you want to serve your Bible study group well, so in this special series of blog posts, we’ll walk you through a few key principles to leading effective discussions. The truth is, leading an effective discussion starts before your group gathers. Here are three habits to keep in mind that will transform your Bible study discussions:
Your prayer life is your most important tool.
Aiming to be the best Bible study leader you can be is good. Preparation, practice, and patience are all essential to leading effective discussions and blessing those you serve. But the most important tool in your arsenal is prayer.
Apart from prayer, we cannot hope to understand or apply the Word of God. We need God’s Holy Spirit to guide us into truth, helping us discern the truth of Scripture (1 Corinthians 2:6–16). Whenever we approach the Bible, then, we need to seek God’s help illuminating its meaning to us.
Pray when you study each part of the Bible lesson—before, during, and after. Ask God for understanding as you begin your study, during your study, and in how to live it out after you’ve studied. Pray also for those in your Bible study. Pray that they won’t grow weary and lose heart. Pray that they’ll be excited about what they learn from God’s Word.
Colossians 1:9–12 is good to pray for those studying the Bible. This is a beautiful prayer to pray for yourself and your group.
For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.
Approaching Bible study in a posture of prayer will position you and your group to have a Spirit-led discussion, guiding you into deeper understanding of God and His Word.
Your personal study is a gift to others.
The next habit to put in practice to facilitate a robust discussion among your group is this: Don’t skimp on your study beforehand. Being diligent in your personal study time will help prepare you to effectively lead discussions. We know that studying can be daunting, and even tedious, at times—but thorough preparation is a gift you give to those in your Bible study group.
Think of your personal study as another way you are serving or ministering to others. Studying until you “get it” is time spent in ministry. So, study well to serve those who are in your Bible study group.
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15
Discuss with others before your group gathers.
You’ve probably heard this before: You know you’ve really understood something when you can explain it simply.
One of the best ways you can prepare to lead an effective discussion is to start discussing the passage with others before your group meets. Talk to a family member or friend—explain the passage and talk through its applications to life. This will help you make sure you have a good grasp of the passage and prepare you to facilitate a robust discussion among your group members.
Remember: As a Bible Study Leader, you make a real difference in the lives of the people you lead. Thank you for striving to be the best leader you can be for God’s glory!
Take your next step today.
For decades, Precept Bible Study Leaders have been the backbone of our ministry. Is your heart’s desire to help transform your community with the hope and truth of God’s Word? Here are a few ways to get started—or continue growing—in your Bible Study Leader journey.
1. Enroll in Online Leader Training.
There’s a new way to be trained as a Precept Bible Study Leader, and it couldn’t be simpler. With Precept Online Training, you can go at your own pace—and our team will be ready to help at every step of the way. Register today!
2. Register for a workshop.
Take your Bible study to the next level with Precept workshops. From Essentials of the Precept Bible Study Method to How to Study the Psalms, there’s an online workshop coming up that’s perfect for you. Keep learning today!
3. Start a group.
Precept Bible study groups meet virtually and in person all over the world. Start a group, and start helping others discover truth for themselves, but not by themselves!