The Best Communicators Know their Audience

The best communicators speak on the level of and in ways that are relevant to their audience.

This only makes sense, practically and biblically.

We learn this principle of communication by looking at the Apostle Paul who said, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Cor. 9:22). In the verses leading up to this one, he mentioned various kinds of backgrounds or social conditions people might be in and how in his ministry, he sought to accommodate all. That of course, implies that he knew the people he taught enough to know their status in life.

Bible Teachers, as Communicators, Must Likewise Know Their Audience, Their Students

Here are some questions you should be able to answer about your students:

1) What are the age level characteristics of the students being taught?

Resources to help answer this question: Age Level Characteristics

2) What are the backgrounds, interests, and life needs of those being taught?

The Bible Teacher’s Role resource briefly explains why it’s important to be able to answer the above questions. In addition to more points about being an effective communicator, this resource also looks at seven other roles.