Bible Study in the Congregation

Abstract

In this 1984 conference paper, Pastor Larry Zahn addresses the challenges and opportunities of promoting Bible study within WELS congregations. Alarmed by low attendance statistics, Zahn explores reasons why members may not participate, including intimidation, lack of facilities, scheduling conflicts, and family responsibilities. He emphasizes that more Bible study may be happening privately than pastors realize and encourages creating welcoming, flexible environments for group study. Zahn shares practical strategies for increasing engagement, such as surveys, newsletters, midweek classes, nursery programs, and creative promotion. He also outlines effective teaching methods, stressing preparation, participation, and avoiding excessive lecturing. The paper includes examples of successful Bible study topics and formats, and concludes with a call to emulate historical figures like Richard Baxter, who transformed communities through personal instruction in Scripture. Zahn urges pastors to foster a culture of lifelong learning rooted in God’s Word.

—Summary generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)