Teaching the Bible in a school setting is a unique challenge. Unlike youth group, where the primary aim might be fellowship and encouragement, a Bible class is an academic course that requires structure, assessment, and critical engagement. At the same time, the Bible is not just another textbook—it is a living document meant to shape lives. Striking the right balance between academic rigor and spiritual formation can be difficult, but it is essential.

Avoiding Two Pitfalls: Dry Lecturing and Overly Simplistic Teaching

Many Bible educators fall into one of two traps. Some approach the subject with such a high level of sophistication that they fail to connect with their students. They assume the role of a distant lecturer, expecting students to absorb complex theological truths without engagement. On the other end of the spectrum, some teachers take on the responsibility of making the Bible “cool.” They become entertainers rather than educators, avoiding difficult topics and reducing theological truths to soundbites.

Both approaches fail students. The first overwhelms them, making the Bible seem inaccessible, while the second underestimates their ability to wrestle with deep truths. The Bible is not a dry academic text, nor is it a feel-good self-help book. It is the inspired Word of God—rich, complex, and transformative.

A Thoughtful Approach to Teaching the Bible

So how do we teach the Bible in a way that is engaging, challenging, and spiritually formative? Here are some key principles:

 

 

 

 

 

1. Have a Clear Lesson Plan

Bible class should never feel like an improvised discussion. Structure is key. Whether teaching Biblical Survey, Doctrine, Apologetics, Christian Worldview, or Spiritual Disciplines, every class should have a clear objective. Students need to know what they are learning and why it matters.

2. Create Space for Questions

Students need to feel comfortable asking questions. The Bible is full of difficult passages, and students will have doubts and struggles. Encouraging questions fosters deeper engagement. A good teacher welcomes curiosity and guides students through the process of thinking biblically. Be conscientious of the time and the relevance of the questions, if you notice that students are asking questions that are worthy exploring, but would lead to a tangent that is not being addressed in the lesson, encourage them to write the question down and save it for a later moment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Use Assessments as Tools for Learning

Testing in Bible class is not just about memorization; it is about comprehension and application. Simple multiple-choice or short-answer quizzes (3-4 questions) after a lesson can gauge whether students understood the key points. These assessments should reinforce learning, not just evaluate it. Google Classroom and similar platforms allow teachers to create simple assessments. Take the extra 10mins when you set up for the lesson, it’s an easy grade, and helps the students in the long run.

4. Teach Theological Depth Without Elitism

Students are capable of understanding deep theological concepts if they are taught well. Terms like justification, sanctification, inerrancy and the sovereignty of God should not be avoided, but they should be explained clearly. If the subject is going to be extra challenging, perhaps assign them to read and even present in groups the subject, then teach them whatever they missed. I tried this while teaching Anselm of Canterbury’s ontological argument, it came in handy as they had to dig deep and learn what an a priori argument is, later on when I taught them presuppositional apologetics, the students were more familiarized with regressive transcendental argumentation. The goal is not to inflate intellectual pride but to lead students to worship through understanding.

5. Teach to the Heart, Not Just the Mind

Bible education should not merely be about transferring information—it should be about transformation. If a teacher is not passionate about the lesson, students will sense it. Passion is contagious. Teachers must connect truth to life application, showing how biblical principles shape how we think, live, and worship.

Conclusion: Excellence in Teaching the Bible

Bible class should be both academically rigorous and spiritually enriching. It should challenge students intellectually while pointing them to Christ. By having a plan, engaging students in meaningful discussion, assessing learning in a thoughtful way, and teaching with passion, Bible educators can ensure that their students don’t just learn about the Bible—they learn to love it.

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Author:

Pastor Mike Pileggi