A previous post suggested we make it a goal to help our adult students apply God’s Word to the way they meet needs and fulfill their responsibilities. As teachers, we need to understand what their needs and responsibilities might be. We can start with a broad understanding based on their stage of adulthood.
Addressing Needs and Responsibilities at Different Stages of Adulthood
Specific responsibilities vary at the different life stages. So does the way people feel about their responsibilities, resulting in needs Bible teachers can address. The Age Level Characteristics Resource – Adults Module published by Ministry Tools Resource Center divides adults into four groupings because of these differences.
To effectively teach adults, we should relate to them accordingly. For example, . . .
College and Career Adults want something real and worthwhile for which to take responsibility.
– Help them identify their God-given role in life, develop healthy relationships, and understand God’s involvement in it.
Young Adults are still learning to navigate life’s responsibilities.
– Guide them in trusting God with all they have to do and help them learn to manage their time, talents, and resources wisely and beneficially.
Middle-Aged Adults find themselves re-negotiating life’s responsibilities due to changes and losses as they face a new or different set of realities.
– Encourage them and help them work through challenges or crisis by the grace and strength of the Lord so they learn to be content where they are.
Senior Adults often wonder if all they did to fulfill life’s responsibilities matters anymore, if they still have anything to contribute.
– Reassure them of their continued worth and spur them on to keep giving of themselves because they still have much to offer.
As we address these broad needs, we have a starting place upon which to build. We can guide them toward the Lord, encouraging them to trust Him for the specifics. Encourage them to follow Proverbs 3:5-6. — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”