Here are a few more thoughts from me about the seven qualities of a good Bible study group leader:
- a growing disciple
- I still remember the impact it had on me when I realised that I was in a group where the leader loved us…
- enthusiastic
- When I’m nervous (whatever the situation I’m in), I come over as unengaged and unenthusiastic. So I make a particular effort to be positive and enthusiastic. And when I see other people responding to this, the nerves often start to go…
- encouraging
- A friend of mine who read through the book before publication to give me his comments wasn’t sure whether to believe my story about the Bible study group at a conference for A-level students. But it’s true: I really did this. You might not want to do it with your group, but you could try it with a few friends. I recommend it!
- watchful
- What makes it easier to be watchful is having notes which are very clear. This will mean that I only need to glance down at my questions occasionally. Which means I can give my attention to the group…
- flexible
- What’s going to make it easier to be flexible is talking to the Lord (silently!) during the study…
- inclusive
- The idea of getting the group to talk about something in pairs works well. But not if the meeting is happening online: see the Appendix, Question 2.
- honest
- I don’t know why we’re sometimes embarrassed to admit that we don’t understand something: I guess it’s just a misunderstanding of what leadership involves. Whereas if we open up about our own struggles, it can help others to be honest too…