How to Attract more Members to Sabbath School

 

Attracting more members to Sabbath School in a Seventh-day Adventist church involves creating a welcoming environment, offering relevant and engaging programs, and building a sense of community. Here are some effective strategies.

Enhance the Sabbath School Experience

   - Relevant Topics: Offer lessons and discussions that address contemporary issues and personal spiritual growth. Ensure the material is practical and applicable to everyday life.

   - Interactive Sessions: Include small group discussions, Q&A sessions, and activities that encourage participation.

   - Varied Teaching Styles: Use storytelling, multimedia, and hands-on activities to cater to different learning preferences.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

   - Warm Hospitality: Greet attendees warmly and make newcomers feel valued.

   - Encourage Participation: Give everyone a chance to share their thoughts without judgment.

   - Inclusive Environment: Ensure the space feels safe and open for diverse opinions and backgrounds.

Focus on Community Building

   - Social Events: Organize potlucks, picnics, or outings to help members connect outside of Sabbath School.

   - Prayer Groups: Form prayer circles to build spiritual bonds among members.

   - Service Opportunities: Plan community service projects to foster unity and purpose.

Leverage Technology

   - Live Streaming and Recordings: Offer virtual attendance options for those who can’t attend in person.

   - Online Promotion: Use social media and messaging apps to share updates, topics, and special events.

   - Interactive Tools: Utilize apps and websites for lesson preparation and discussion.

Promote Consistently

   - Announcements: Highlight Sabbath School activities during church services.

   - Personal Invitations: Encourage members to invite friends, neighbors, and family.

   - Printed and Digital Materials: Use flyers, newsletters, and WhatsApp groups to share information.

Empower Leadership

   - Training for Teachers: Equip teachers with skills to lead engaging and spiritually enriching discussions.

   - Encourage Creativity: Allow leaders to try new formats, themes, or activities.

   - Feedback and Improvement: Regularly ask for feedback from attendees to understand their needs and improve the program.

Offer Special Programs

   - Themed Series: Host a series on topics like relationships, health, prophecy, or current events from a biblical perspective.

   - Guest Speakers: Invite engaging speakers or panelists.

   - Mission Spotlights: Share stories and videos about Adventist missions to inspire and educate.

By making Sabbath School dynamic, meaningful, and community-focused, your church can attract more attendees and deepen their spiritual experience.

Linking New Testament and Old Testament passages to Jesus

 The New Testament often references and fulfills Old Testament passages to show how Jesus is the promised Messiah and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Here's how the texts are connected.

John 1:23 and Isaiah 40:3

   - John 1:23: John the Baptist identifies himself as "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’” directly quoting Isaiah 40:3.

   - Isaiah 40:3: This prophecy speaks of a voice calling for the preparation of a way for God in the wilderness.

   - Connection: John the Baptist is seen as the forerunner of Jesus, preparing the people for His coming. In the context of the New Testament, Isaiah's prophecy is fulfilled in John's ministry as he prepares the way for Jesus, the Lord.

John 2:16-17 and Psalm 69:9

   - John 2:16-17: Jesus drives out the moneychangers from the temple, and His disciples recall the scripture, "Zeal for your house will consume me."

   - Psalm 69:9: This psalm reflects a deep commitment to God’s house and is considered a Messianic prophecy.

   - Connection: Jesus’ cleansing of the temple demonstrates His passion for God’s holiness and proper worship, fulfilling the prophecy in Psalm 69 that the Messiah would be consumed by zeal for God's house.

John 7:38 and Jeremiah 2:13

   - John 7:38: Jesus says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

   - Jeremiah 2:13: God laments that His people have forsaken Him, "the fountain of living water," and dug broken cisterns for themselves.

   - Connection: Jesus identifies Himself as the source of "living water," fulfilling the imagery of God as the fountain of life. Believing in Jesus restores the connection to the true source of spiritual sustenance, contrasting with the idolatry condemned in Jeremiah.

John 19:36 and Numbers 9:12

   - John 19:36: In the crucifixion account, it is noted that none of Jesus' bones were broken, fulfilling Scripture.

   - Numbers 9:12: The Passover lamb’s bones were not to be broken, symbolizing the lamb’s perfection.

   - Connection: Jesus is the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice secures redemption. The detail about His unbroken bones ties directly to the requirements for the Passover lamb, showing that Jesus’ death fulfills the typology of the lamb in the Exodus narrative.

Each of these New Testament passages uses Old Testament scriptures to affirm Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy, emphasizing His role as the Messiah and the central figure in God’s redemptive plan. Through these connections, the New Testament presents Jesus as the embodiment of God's promises and the ultimate resolution to the spiritual needs of humanity.

More: Lesson 8 Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies

Making an Adult Sabbath School Class Engaging

 

Making an adult Sabbath School class engaging while maintaining its spiritual focus and depth requires thoughtful planning and a balance of teaching methods. Here are some tips for teachers in a Seventhday Adventist (SDA) context.

Foster Interactive Discussions

 Ask OpenEnded Questions 

Encourage deeper thinking with questions like, "What does this passage teach us about God’s character?" or "How can we apply this principle to our daily lives?"

 Encourage Sharing Invite class members to share their personal experiences, testimonies, or insights related to the lesson.

 Facilitate, Don’t Lecture Act as a guide rather than a lecturer. Prompt the group to discuss key points rather than presenting them all yourself.

 Use Creative Teaching Tools

 Visual Aids 

Incorporate charts, illustrations, or videos that align with the lesson.

 Props or Symbols

 Bring simple items that connect to the topic (e.g., a seed to discuss faith).

 Interactive Activities

 Use group exercises like brainstorming, roleplaying, or small group discussions.

 Relate Lessons to Real Life

 Contextualize Scripture 

Show how biblical principles apply to modern challenges such as relationships, work, or health.

 Practical Applications 

Discuss how to live out key lessons during the coming week.

 Current Events 

Relate the lesson to recent events or societal issues to make it relevant.

 Include Diverse Perspectives

 Different Viewpoints 

Explore how various cultures or SDA theologians interpret a passage.

 Guest Contributors 

Occasionally invite members or local experts to lead part of the lesson or share insights.

 Incorporate Music and Worship

 Song or Hymn S

tart or end the class with a hymn that ties into the theme.

 Short Worship 

Segment Spend a few minutes in prayer, reading a Psalm, or reflecting on God’s blessings.

 Be Spirit Led and Prepared

 Prayerful Preparation 

Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you study the lesson and plan your class.

 Know Your Audience

 Tailor your approach to the interests and spiritual maturity of your class members.

 Use Technology Wisely

 Presentation Slides 

Highlight key points or display Scripture references on a screen.

 Digital Resources 

Share online tools like the Sabbath School app, EGW writings, or Bible commentary links.

 Make the Environment Welcoming

 Greet Members

 Start with a warm welcome and foster a sense of belonging.

 Encourage Participation 

Make every member feel valued by encouraging even shy attendees to contribute.

 Example Interactive Approach

Sample Topic - The Fruit of the Spirit  

 Introduction 

Show a basket of real or symbolic fruits. Ask, “Which of these fruits represents love, joy, or patience to you?”  

 Discussion Break 

into groups to discuss how the Fruit of the Spirit can be cultivated in our lives.  

 Application 

As a class, create a list of practical ways to nurture one “fruit” during the week.  

By making the class engaging and participatory, teachers can encourage members to not only learn but also apply biblical principles in meaningful ways.

More: Tips for Teaching Adult Sabath School

More: Sabbath School Behavio Chart for Children

Jesus’ attitude toward the authority of Scripture: John 5:39, 40, 46, 47

 

Jesus’ attitude toward the authority of Scripture

 John 5:39–40 (NIV):  

"You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life."

 John 5:46–47 (NIV):  

"If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say?"

 Key Lessons About Jesus’ Attitude Toward Scripture

Scripture is Authoritative and Points to Jesus  

   Jesus affirms the authority and truthfulness of Scripture, emphasizing that the writings of Moses and the broader Scriptures testify about Him. He recognizes them as inspired by God and foundational for understanding His mission and identity.

Scripture Must Be Understood Properly  

   Jesus criticizes those who study Scripture but fail to grasp its deeper purpose: to lead people to Him as the source of life. This highlights that while Scripture is authoritative, its value lies not in mere intellectual study but in understanding its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.

Belief in Scripture and Belief in Jesus are Interconnected  

   Jesus links belief in the writings of Moses (and the Scriptures as a whole) with belief in Himself. He challenges His audience to align their faith in Scripture with faith in Him, implying that true understanding of Scripture naturally leads to accepting Him.

Scripture is Trustworthy  

   By appealing to the writings of Moses, Jesus underscores the reliability of Scripture. He does not question its validity but rather uses it to validate His own claims, showing His deep respect for its divine origin.

Jesus demonstrates a profound respect for the authority of Scripture. He sees it as divinely inspired, reliable, and ultimately fulfilled in Him. However, He also warns against a superficial or legalistic reading that misses its central message about the Messiah.

More: Lesson 8 Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies

How does John 5:17, 20, and 36–38, describe the relation ship between Jesus and God the Father, especially in the context of the signs?

 John 5:17, 20, and 36–38 reveal deep insights into the relationship between Jesus and God the Father, particularly in the context of the signs or works that Jesus performed. Here's an analysis of the verses and their implications

      John 5:17    

  "But Jesus answered them, 'My Father is working until now, and I am working.'"

   Relationship Insight  : This verse emphasizes the unity and continuity between Jesus' work and the Father's work. Jesus aligns Himself with the Father's ongoing activity, highlighting a shared mission and divine authority. This statement also implies equality with God, which was provocative to His audience. 

   Connection to Signs  : The "working" refers to God's sustaining and redeeming activity in the world, which is manifested in Jesus' miraculous signs. These signs affirm that Jesus' works are not independent but are part of God's divine plan.

      John 5:20    

  "For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing. And greater works than these will he show him, so that you may marvel."

   Relationship Insight  : The verse reveals the intimate love and unity between the Father and the Son. The Father’s act of revealing His works to the Son reflects their perfect communication and shared purpose.

   Connection to Signs  : Jesus’ signs are a demonstration of what the Father has shown Him. The promise of "greater works" points to the escalating revelation of God's power, ultimately culminating in Jesus' resurrection and redemptive acts.

      John 5:36–38    

  "But the testimony that I have is greater than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness about me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen, and you do not have his word abiding in you, for you do not believe the one whom he has sent."

   Relationship Insight  : Jesus’ works serve as a divine testimony to His identity and mission. They demonstrate His intimate connection with the Father, who has commissioned Him. The lack of belief among His audience is contrasted with the clear testimony provided by the Father through Jesus.

   Connection to Signs  : The signs Jesus performs are the Father’s works, given to Jesus to accomplish. They are a visible manifestation of the Father's authority and a validation of Jesus' divine mission.

These verses collectively highlight the profound unity and love between Jesus and the Father. The works, or signs, that Jesus performs are not merely miracles but divine acts that reflect the Father's will and testify to Jesus' identity as the Son of God. They serve as evidence of the intimate and active relationship between the Father and the Son, inviting belief and marvel in those who witness them.

More: Lesson 8 Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies

What was the essential difference in the expressions of faith by Abraham and by Thomas? What can we learn from their stories?

 The essential difference in the expressions of faith by Abraham and Thomas lies in the nature of their belief and trust in God

 Abraham: Faith as Trust Without Evidence

Abraham's faith is characterized by trust in God without needing tangible evidence. He obeyed God's commands even when they seemed incomprehensible or required great personal sacrifice. For example:

- Leaving his homeland: Abraham left his home in Ur to journey to an unknown land solely based on God's promise (Genesis 12:1-4).

- Sacrifice of Isaac: Abraham was willing to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice, trusting that God's promises would still be fulfilled (Genesis 22:1-18).

Abraham's faith was rooted in a deep trust in God's character and promises, even when the outcome was unclear or appeared impossible.

 Thomas: Faith as Belief Upon Evidence

Thomas, one of Jesus' disciples, represents a more empirical approach to faith. After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas doubted the accounts of the other disciples and insisted on physical evidence:

- Doubting the resurrection: Thomas famously said, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe" (John 20:25).

- Receiving confirmation: When Jesus appeared to him and invited him to touch His wounds, Thomas immediately proclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28).

Thomas’ faith was solidified after encountering tangible evidence of Jesus' resurrection.

 Lessons We Can Learn

Faith Takes Different Forms

   - Abraham teaches us the importance of trusting God even without visible signs or immediate evidence.

   - Thomas shows us that God is patient with our doubts and willing to meet us where we are.

God Meets Us in Our Faith Journey

   - God honored Abraham's trust by fulfilling His promises, such as giving him a son and making him the father of many nations.

   - Jesus graciously addressed Thomas’ doubts, using the opportunity to affirm the blessedness of those who believe without seeing.

Faith Is Both Personal and Relational

   - Abraham's story emphasizes a personal and intimate trust in God's promises.

   - Thomas reminds us that faith is not blind but can be informed by experiences and evidence.

Invitation to Deeper Faith:

   - Jesus' words to Thomas, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed" (John 20:29), encourage us to cultivate a faith that goes beyond the need for physical proof.

Both stories highlight the multifaceted nature of faith and God’s willingness to guide us, regardless of where we are in our spiritual journey.

More: Lesson 7 - Blessed Are Those  Who Believe

Sabbath School Lesson 8: Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies

 Themes in the Gospel of John

Sabbath School Lesson 8

Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

------------------------------

> Download the notes for Lesson 8 video here.

---------------------- 

> Download  Themes in the Gospel of John (4th  qtr) Sabbath School Lessons Here

------------------------------