The Three Questions We Are Asked Most
A Bible study in any context allows space for vulnerable sharing as the Scriptures are walked through together, but it is also a unique space for facilitators to wrestle with some hard questions. We understand the weight of these questions and the concerns they bring! Our goal here is to briefly address the three questions our team is asked most often: How do I handle prayer in a Bible study? What if no one comes? And what if someone asks a question that I, as the facilitator, don’t know the answer to? Not only are these questions we get asked, but they’re also topics that we ourselves have worked through as we lead others in the study of God’s Word. We’re in this with you!
How do I handle prayer in a Bible study?
If you’ve been around the Neighbor Bible Studies community for very long, you know prayer is foundational. So how do we suggest handling prayer in a Bible study with neighbors, coworkers, fellow students, etc., in a way that allows the study of Scripture to remain the focal point? Here’s one idea: During the Bible study, pass around a prayer journal where everyone can write down their requests. At the end of the study, you, as the facilitator, can then pray aloud over the requests. You can also ask someone else to pray over them. Depending on how comfortable everyone is with each other, you can then text or email the requests to the group (while emphasizing confidentiality) so everyone can pray throughout the week. However you decide to walk through prayer requests in the group, always be sensitive to the prompting of the Spirit to stop and pray together as a group if a significant need is shared.
What if no one comes?
We recognize what a bold step it is to invite neighbors or others you connect with to a Bible study gathering! Have you ever been concerned that no one will come? You’re not the first! We want to encourage you to rest in God’s sovereignty and His plan. If no one comes, that’s okay. You took steps of obedience and faith and left the results up to God.
There are several factors to keep in mind as well. You may want to consider the timing. The time of day or season of life can be huge factors when inviting neighbors over. Another thing to keep in mind is relationships. People are often drawn to our Bible studies simply because they’ve seen us or connected with us in some way or another. Perhaps this is a season for building relationships with the people around you.
What if someone asks a question that I don’t have an answer to?
The good news is, you are not expected to have all the answers! One response I find myself sharing when I don’t know the answer to a question is, “That’s a great question, and I’m not actually sure. But let’s look together at other Scripture passages and see what they say.” Or, if a question is asked to which there is no direct scriptural answer, maybe say, “The Scriptures don’t tell us exactly, but let’s see what we can learn from similar passages about that topic.” As hard as it may seem ahead of time, it’s okay for a question to go unanswered. Ask the Holy Spirit to help those in your group have faith in Him and His Word even when questions remain.
Even from afar, we are cheering you on as Bible study facilitators! We are so grateful that God has first given you a passion to share His Word with the people around you and then led you to trust Him as you step out in faith. We are praying for you and would love the opportunity to connect more personally. On nbs2go.com, simply click “Contact Us” at the very bottom of any page, and that will allow us to reach out to you.
We thank God for you!
