Planning to Teach

Regardless of whether you have taught for a few months or for several decades, preparing the weekly lesson is an act of obedience on the part of the teacher. If we are not careful, we can approach our preparation lightly. One result will be a failure to bring everything to the students whom God has placed in our care. While the details of planning will be as unique as each teacher, it will prove beneficial for the teacher to have a plan by which they approach lesson preparation each week. The following is a simply a sample plan that you may find helpful. You are encouraged to consider using this plan or modifying it in such a way that you are thoroughly prepared for the careful teaching of God’s Word.

Sunday – Day 1 – Read the Scripture references to be used in the lesson. Allow ample time to also read the context in which these passages were written. If various Bible translations are available, read the focal Scripture passages in several translations. Pray for your class and your study of the lesson. Prayer for yourself, your students, and the lesson should be a daily priority in your prayer time.

Monday – Day 2 – Read the student quarterly for the upcoming week’s lesson. You may discover some thoughts which are emphasized in the student materials that are not highlighted in the teacher resources. Make note of questions the student is asked to consider and any other preparation which is expected of the learner.

Tuesday – Day 3 – Scripture study – use Bible commentaries and other resources available to you to do a thorough study of the Scripture references. Utilize these resources before you begin to read your teacher quarterly.

Wednesday – Day 4 – Read the teacher quarterly for the upcoming lesson.

Thursday – Day 5 – Begin planning your lesson. Consider if you will recruit a class member to assist you with any portion of the lesson and if so, contact these individuals and request their assistance. Consider other resources that you will need for the lesson and make arrangements to have these supplies available.

Friday, Day 6 – Write out a step by step teaching plan. While a plan may be provided for you in your teaching quarterly – do not feel that you have to follow it exactly. Be specific as you plan – making note of: Scripture passages to be read and discussed; questions to be asked; individual or small group involvement; etc. Include a time-line with your teaching plan so that all components can be included in your allotted class time.

Saturday, Day 7 – Review the step by step teaching plan. Pay special attention to issues of application. Bible study is essential and yet the students need to understand how this teaching should shape their attitudes and actions.

Sunday, Day 8 – Review your teaching plan, set-up your room & resources, and pray for God’s leading as you teach His Word to your students.