Welcome to Week 2 of our 4-part series on attending Bible Study!

If you missed Part 1 about attending a Bible Study, you can read it here.

Whether you are a long time Bible Study participant or have never attended a Bible Study, I pray this series helps you get the most out of your semester and offers you effective and grace-filled ways to attend, participate, and enjoy biblical community this fall. 

Even if you aren’t attending a Bible Study this semester, this series will remind you of the importance of studying the Bible, show you how to grow in God’s Word, and offer encouragement for your personal study time. So, stay tuned each week in August for a new post in the series! And don’t forget to share this with a friend who could use the encouragement, too!

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We often walk into a Bible Study with a passive mentality—hoping to just sit back or lay low. I get it. The kids might have been challenging that day, or you’re stressed from work, or you didn’t complete the homework. Similarly, some of us are desperate for some new friends but feel overwhelmed in a new environment. Others might be ready to help, serve, or lead but are unsure where to begin. Each of us might be wondering as we walk into Bible Study, what exactly should I do here? 

Well, God has you at Bible Study for a reason! 

I pray these 4 ideas below help you get the most out of your experience and give you direction and confidence when you walk through the doors:

1. Be prepared.

Try your best to complete the lesson and assignment each week. Make sure you read the Scripture passage before you arrive at Bible Study. “Being prepared” doesn’t mean you have all the answers, know everything about the lesson, or feel like you’ve resolved every issue or question you had during the week. It just means that you will arrive with thoughtful questions, organized ideas, and meaningful comments that show you take Bible Study seriously.

2. Be willing.

Hard hearts make poor Bible Study companions. Likewise, we can be confident students without being arrogant or proud. Be willing to let your life be fertile ground for the Word.  Be willing to learn from mature teachers and to respond to different perspectives with grace. Be willing to pray about how the Word should be understood and applied, and be willing to adapt your life to its truth.

3. Be consistent.

This is simple: show up to Bible Study. I know, it’s easy to flake out, but stay committed! There will be weeks when nothing goes as planned, and you are not prepared. Show up anyway. Believe it or not, your group depends on you and your presence will be missed. Consistency matters in Bible study and in community.

4. Be available.

Make yourself available to different opportunities at Bible Study by being approachable (friendly), engaged (put down your phone), and eager (say yes to things like learning people’s names and helping out). Be supportive of the group’s priorities and ready to actively participate—whether it’s setting up chairs, holding a baby, praying with someone, participating in the group discussion, or simply patiently listening to someone who has had a hard day. Not only will this bless your group, but you might just find a new passion or avenue to express your gifts!  

If you feel ready to serve or lead at Bible Study, exhibiting these 4 qualities will help the leadership team see your energy and love for Bible Study. Then, at an appropriate time, you can talk to a leader and see how the group adds new people to their team. 

Bottom line: You are a valuable part of Bible study. Show up to be involved!