Tip # 2 for Bible Study Teachers

LESSON PREPARATION

Many classes use quarterlies. Others, like the ones I have taught, involve lessons that are designed by the teacher. (Several of my lesson series and individual lesson plans can be found at www.johnggage.com…) Regardless of where your initial lessons originate, lesson plan preparation is a must! Here are a few resources I have found very helpful in developing effective lesson plans:

• Zondervan Handbook to the Bible © 1999 Pat and David Alexander
• Hebrew Greek Key Study Bible (Compiled and edited by Spiros Zodhiates, AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN)
• The Moody Handbook of Theology © 1989 by the Moody Bible Institute, Chicago
• The Wiersbe Bible Commentary, Old and New Testament (Warren Wiersbe) © 2007 David C. Cook
• Internet searches for “rabinnic wisdom on….” (Especially helpful when researching Old Testament characters or concepts)
• Internet searches on “Christian quotes on… “ ( especially when researching character traits, individual words like “serving” or “sacrifice”, etc.
• www.Blueletterbible.org ( includes many Bible commentaries)
• www.biblegateway.com (includes 60 translations of the Bible in English)

A word of caution: When doing internet searches, be very sure that people you quote, sites that you reference, etc. are theologically sound. Some “rabinnic wisdom” sources reference Hebrew literature or cultural tradition that are not a part of the canon of scripture, and may or may not be a valuable resource. Some “Christian Quotes” may be from a less than accurate theological perspective…just be discerning before you share a quote or reference a “theologian” to insure Biblical accuracy. If you aren’t familiar with someone, research their background and denominational identity before you quote them.