Have you been longing for a verse-by-verse study of the Pastoral Epistles, (First and Second
Timothy and Titus)? Or, maybe you would enjoy an overview of the Major Prophets, Isaiah,
Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel? Maybe you would appreciate some faith-building
lessons on Christian Evidences? Or perhaps you want to go back to basics, and strengthen your
knowledge of Bible Fundamentals. All of these options are available to you in the adult classes
coming up in the winter quarter. Beginning in December, and running through February, the adult
class offerings here at Central are among the best ever presented.
Our attendance numbers for adult Bible classes generally run strong, but they could be
stronger. Are you taking advantage of these important opportunities? Bible study is a regular and
important part of the Christians life. The Bible says: “Study [give diligence] to show thyself
approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of
truth,” (2 Tim. 2:15KJV). “As newborn babes, long for the spiritual milk which is without guile,
that ye may grow thereby unto salvation,” (2 Tim. 2:2). Like the noble Bereans, we all should be
“searching the Scriptures daily,” (Acts 17:11). This is how we grow and mature as children of
God. Missing opportunities to study God’s word is like missing bountiful meals which have been
specially prepared for our nourishment.
Consider the adult curriculum here at Central. At 9:45 on Sunday mornings, a Bible study
opportunity is regularly offered, which typically includes the option of either a Bible textual or
Bible topical class for approximately 45 minutes. Currently on Sunday mornings, the textual
class is from the New Testament. On Wednesday evenings, the opportunity is afforded again, but
currently the textual class is from the Old Testament. This means that if a person faithfully attends
both Sunday morning and Wednesday evening Bible studies, the entire text of the Bible can be
studied over a period of a few years. Or, if the student prefers to attend a textual class on Sundays
and a topical class on Wednesdays, for example, they can still study the entire Bible (in twice the
time), but also benefit from the study of important Bible topics.
Generally, the men teaching these adult classes are preparing their lessons well in advance.
This means that students have the benefit of careful, prepared lessons being presented by teachers
who have considered and prayed about the material they are presenting. In some cases, they have
taught that particular subject matter multiple times, and bring a depth of experience to the
classroom which is invaluable.
Add to this arrangement the fact that students are encouraged to study and prepare for each
class, supplementing the classroom time with personal study time, and you have a powerful
component to the Christian life. In fact, the potential for individual spiritual growth through our
Bible class programs is virtually unbounded, limited only by the student’s degree of personal
preparation and mental participation in the class. Some students faithfully take notes and keep
records of the class lectures and discussions, then review those notes the following week – a very
valuable practice. Sometimes the teachers will utilize a class workbook or other study guide,
which can be marked up and retained in the student’s library for future reference.
When you stop and think about it, there really is no good reason for deliberately missing out
on the formal Bible classes offered to our adults here at Central. In fact, these classes are one of
the most important benefits of membership. Some are archived on our YouTube page.
I’d like to challenge each member of this congregation to take this even a step further. Consider
ways that you can use the Bible classes as opportunities for personal work. Bringing a friend to
Bible class is a tremendous way to open doors for further Bible study. It will generate questions
and comments, which will stimulate Bible conversations between you and your guest. It will
grow the class and encourage the teacher and the other members. Please think about using our
Bible classes as a means for reaching the lost!
As the new year approaches, why not resolve to faithfully attend and fully participate in our
adult Bible classes. You will be richer, spiritually, if you do!
– by Robert C. Veil, Jr.
