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