If you are an adult Bible class leader, you are probably good at serving people. You are willing and able to help people grow in their Christian walk. You have already accepted this as your responsibility and privilege. But is your class also serving? Or are you doing all the work of the class, refusing others the opportunity to serve? If so, you have succeeded as a servant, but failed as a leader. How can we equip the members of our classes to serve?

1. Assign Weekly Responsibilities to Class Members

In spite of the fact that our members are at varying stages of spiritual growth, everyone can do something. Spiritually mature adults can assist as disciplers or care group leaders, mentoring younger Christians in the faith. Newer members—who still have some growing to do—can be involved by helping with classroom setup, distributing bulletins at the door, providing refreshments, and more.

As people’s needs are shared with the group (often in the form of prayer requests), we should call on various students to move into action and meet those needs. We must resist the tendency to depend on only a select few and leave others out—a scenario where everyone loses.

2. Help Students Find a Place to Serve in the Church

First Corinthians 12 teaches us that there is a job for everyone in the body. Some should sing in the choir (some should not!). Others should teach children or care for newborns. Others have unique gifts and abilities that should be invested in specific areas. Class leaders should see themselves as “ministry coaches” who help their class members find the right fit for ministry. 

We do people no service by allowing them to sit by while the church moves forward with our mission. Many church members are willing to serve but are waiting to be approached in an individual and thoughtful manner.

3. Involve Members in the Church’s Outreach Efforts

We believe that the Sunday school is first an evangelistic tool, and second an educational tool. We are seeking to fulfill the Great Commission through the combined efforts of our leaders and members. We intend for each class to reach people for Christ in their assigned age group or stage of life.

This work is not intended solely for the pastors and leaders—it’s for every believer! Therefore, class leaders must seek to include their students in weekly soulwinning efforts, special outreach events, and consistent efforts in inviting their friends, neighbors, coworkers, and relatives to church.

First Peter 4:10 says, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” When we involve people in ministry, we help them develop spiritual muscles while together we accomplish more for the Kingdom of God.