Curriculum provides a series of lessons that teach the Word of God in a systematic, often incremental way. We might purchase curriculum published by others or write our own. Either way, we should look for and implement a biblically sound plan.
Acrostic of Points to Consider When Choosing and Using Bible Curriculum
The following should be incorporated in whatever curriculum we use to teach God’s Word:
C – Choose Wisely
Make sure it rightly divides the Word (2 Tim. 2:15) as well as making sure it is sound otherwise.
U – Understand Age Level Characteristics
Gear it to the abilities and needs of the age being taught, adapting it to best reach them where they are (1 Cor. 9:19-22).
R – Remember Application
Guide people into seeing the implications and application of the lesson to life knowing that God wants us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only (James 1:22-25).
- 4 Tips for Helping Students Apply Bible Lessons to Life
- Application: It’s God’s Idea, Not Merely a Good Idea Worksheet Download
R – Reach for Changed Lives
Keep God’s long range goal in front of you that we become new (2 Cor. 5:17), that we become more and more Christ-like (Rom. 8:29).
I – Introduce so as to Build Interest
From the start, draw people’s attention (Titus 2:10), helping them see the relevance of the lesson to their lives.
C – Center Around God’s Word
Make His Word the source of authority as it is inspired by God and that which is useful for working in people’s lives (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
- Bible Teaching Must Keep the Word Central
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U – Use Variety of Methods
Follow God’s pattern of presenting truth in multiple ways (Heb. 1:1-2).
- Bible Teachers Need to Incorporate Variety into Lessons
- Sharpening Your Bible Teaching Methods Download
L – Look to God for Help
No matter how good the curriculum might be, it doesn’t change lives. — God does (Phil. 2:13; 2 Pet. 1:3) and only by His Spirit will people truly learn and change (1 Cor. 2:4-5, 9-16).
U – Use Relevant Visuals
Reinforce the spoken word with visuals as even God does that (Rom. 1:20).
M – Make Adjustments as Needed
If something doesn’t seem like it will work for your group, adjust it and even more important, don’t get so locked in that you stifle the Holy Spirit (1 Thess. 5:19).