Teaching for Change: Where Are You Going?

Written by John McClendon

Second Timothy 3:14-17 is a beautiful picture of transformation. Timothy was taught by leaders and family members whose lives so exemplified the Christian life that he was convinced by the Scriptures they taught to accept Christ into his life. Paul later challenged him to continue studying God’s Word because it would transform his life to become someone that was equipped for “every good work.”

Essentials for Excellence - Adult Leader Downloadable Book

Have you ever thought about where God wants you to take members of your Sunday School class? Do you know where you are going as a follower of Christ? Do you know where your learners are going?

What Results Should We Look For?
Look over the following list and answer the questions personally and for individual members of your class. This will allow you to begin to consider the long haul of guiding adults toward transformation.

Numerical Growth
Are learners so excited about what God has done in their lives that they are bringing others to Sunday School?
Spiritual Transformation
- Relationship with Christ
  Are these learners becoming more Christ like? Is their fellowship and intimacy with Jesus Christ evident?
- Relationship with Believers
  Do the relationships these learners have with other believers reflect growth in Christ?
- Relationship with the Unsaved
  Do these learners demonstrate compassion for the unsaved? Are they showing growth in how they respond to people in need?
Christian Disciplines
Are these learners more consistent in their daily Bible study, prayer, worship, witnessing, and faithfulness to your church?
Ministries Expansion
Are they seeking ways to meet needs through ministry?
Missions Advance
Are these learners demonstrating a desire to become involved in mission trips or projects?

If you are a teacher, consider how you need to change how you teach and relate to members. Consider the ways in which you need to grow in these areas as well.

John McClendon is Lead Adult Ministry Specialist in LifeWay Church Resources, a division of LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, Tennessee.