Why One Should Attend Bible Class?

Paul instructed the Romans “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” (Romans 12:11). To serve the Lord with fervency would mean that one places great emphasis on every aspect of the work and programs of the church as long as they are scriptural and right.

The elders of any given congregation are responsible for overseeing and feeding the flock. They are to make sure the diet they are being feed is scriptural, nourishing, and free of contaminants. They are to be diligent in “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” Elders in attempting to carry out their responsibility have organized Bible Classes to assist in feeding the flock.

Bible Classes by some are considered to be of little importance. This is evidenced by the lack of support. It is understood that Bible Classes Sunday morning or Wednesday night is a matter of expediency, but this does not make them any less important. Every Christian that is able to do so, should attend and support in whatever way possible all teaching programs of the church, not because it is mandated but because it is an opportunity for us to nourish ourselves on the nourishment of God’s word. Why do I believe attending Bible Classes are important? Permit me to offer some of the reasons.

Attending Bible Classes are important because God commands us to study. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). The Bereans were commended for their attitude and zeal in searching the scriptures (Acts 17:11). Bible Classes afford us the opportunity to study together and learn from one another. It affords a time to openly discuss subject matter, to ask questions and to learn more of God’s will for us.

Attending Bible Classes are important because it shows an appreciation and respect for what the elders are trying to do for my spiritual wellbeing and growth. We are admonished to “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation” (Hebrews 13:7). “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:170. Elders are trying to do their part, are we?

Attending Bible Classes are important because it helps us gain knowledge to teach others including our own children. We are told to go and teach others (make disciples) baptizing them by the authority of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19-20). Fathers are told to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Bible Classes help prepare us to comply with these commands. How can we ever learn too much of what the Lord wants for us, our families and mankind? The Lord wants all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). To be saved they have to be taught (Matthew 28:19; Romans 10:13-17); and how can we teach them if we fail to take advantage of every opportunity to prepare ourselves.

Attending Bible Classes are important so we can prepare ourselves to give a Bible answer to those who ask you concerning the hope within us (1 Peter 3:15). If someone were to ask you why you are a Christian, what would be your response? What about if someone asks you what to do to become a Christian, or why we do not use instrumental music in worship, why we do not baptize infants and a number of other questions of like nature, what would be your response? Bible Classes can help prepare us to give an answer regarding such questions.

Attending Bible Classes are important because it sets a proper Christian example. We are admonished “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Christians are to be examples of the believers (1 Timothy 4:12). We are instructed to walk in the footsteps of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21). Are we really setting a proper example for others by not supporting our Bible Classes? Where would Jesus be if He had the opportunity?

Attending Bible Classes are important because it helps us mature in the faith. As Christians we are to go on to perfection (maturity) (Hebrews 6:1). We should put forth every effort to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18), adding the Christian graces of (2 Peter 1:5-11) and the fruit of the Spirit. Bible Classes enhance our ability to mature into the likeness of Christ. What is your maturity level? Have you taken an inventory lately?

Attending Bible Classes are important because it helps prepare us for the judgment of God. The standard of Judgment will be the word of God (John 12:48; James 2:12). If one is going to take a driver’s test to obtain an operators licenses what does he do? Does he not study the driver’s manual? How do we expect to stand acceptable before God at the judgment unless we study the manual divinely provided (2 Timothy 3:16-17)? How much time do you spend with the master’s blue print?

Attending Bible Classes are important! It helps us in so many ways and by helping us it can and should help others as well. Let me admonish you to support all of our Bible study programs. It will be worth your time.

Bill Cantrell