Let the Students Absorb
What You Are Teaching
Pastor Daniel Habben continues his series of articles that help us as we consider the question, How can we best reach adults with God’s Word in a Bible class setting? With a clear reminder of the blessings God’s people receive as they study his Word, this series of articles challenges all of us to take a serious look at the way we teach Bible class. Pastor Habben offers specific and practical suggestions for us to consider as we strive to become better communicators of God’s truth.

In his fifth article, Pastor Habben reminds us of the importance of giving adult students time to absorb what they have learned. 



Pastor Daniel Habben served St. Peter Lutheran Church in St. Albert, Alberta, Canada, for 18 years. He recently accepted the call to serve St. John’s Lutheran Church on the island of Antigua. 

Pastor Habben came to love teaching when he tutored at Luther Prep School and is thankful for the feedback he received from his fellow tutors—especially from the Martin Luther College teacher grads! He was a presenter at the 2015 symposium on education at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. Most of the materials in the following articles are from that presentation.
They never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. - Acts 5:42
Adult Education: Additum
Polish Your Communication Skills

In his lead article, Pastor Habben suggested a process that allows students to absorb what you are teaching. The concept of absorb includes understanding what is taught, grasping the significance for ourselves, and remembering.
 
In order for this to happen in any area of learning, clear communication is key. If you are teaching God’s Word, you recognize that your ability to communicate clearly is doubly important. For that reason, many communicators of God’s truth are constantly striving to hone their communication skills. Our focus today will be on two resources that you might use to strengthen those skills.

Teaching Toolbox
Women's Bible Studies

The September 2017 Teaching Toolbox highlighted the work of the Women’s Ministry subcommittee of the Commission on Adult Discipleship and 20 Bible studies, written by women for women, that have been posted online.
 
Several people expressed appreciation for the information, which previously had been unknown to them.
 
Judging by the number of requests received at the NPH store, it seems that the appetite for Bible studies geared toward women’s groups continues to grow. As we wait for additional studies to be planned and written, it is worth noting that a number of Bible study kits, previously produced by the Commission on Adult Discipleship and NPH, could serve well in a women’s Bible study setting. 


Curriculum Connection
How Can They Teach That:
And Still Claim to Believe the Bible?

It doesn’t surprise most Christians that our world doesn’t accept what the Bible teaches. It does confuse many, however, and causes many to stumble in their faith when they hear of Christian churches and denominations that teach what is clearly contrary to Scripture.

This Bible study explains how the higher critical method of interpreting the Bible has allowed human reason to distort God’s Word, especially regarding four key topics.

Click the links below to view Lesson 1.

Leader's Guide: PDF
Sample Lesson: PDF | RTF
 

Teaching Tip

Consider using e-mail to encourage class participation. Send one question for class participants to consider during the week and to whet their appetites for the next session.
  Teach the Word  is a collaboration of Northwestern Publishing House, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and WELS Adult Discipleship.