David Helm, senior pastor of Christ Church Chicago and chairman of the board for the Charles Simeon Trust, shares valuable insights on teaching the Bible effectively. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and reliance on the Holy Spirit while addressing the unique role of everyday individuals in Bible teaching. Helm discusses overcoming anxiety in leading discussions and encourages a fresh engagement with Scripture to navigate challenges. Listeners are inspired to view teaching as a journey of growth and progress in their faith.
Teaching the Bible responsibly requires confidence in its transformative power rather than relying solely on personal charisma and skills.
The local church serves as a vital support system for aspiring Bible teachers, offering mentorship and constructive feedback essential for growth.
Deep dives
The Weight of Teaching the Bible
Teaching the Bible carries a significant responsibility, whether in a formal setting like preaching or in more intimate contexts such as family discussions. This responsibility stems from the belief that God's Word is inherently powerful and capable of affecting human hearts and minds. Through teaching, individuals serve as conduits for this transformative message, guiding others in understanding its implications for their lives. The episode emphasizes the necessity of approaching Bible teaching with both reverence and care, recognizing that effective communication of the gospel can lead to both positive and mixed responses.
Contexts for Bible Teaching
Bible teaching extends beyond the pulpit and encompasses various informal settings where individuals may share their faith. Examples include youth groups, Bible studies, or even personal one-on-one conversations aimed at discipleship. The podcast encourages ordinary Christians—those not in vocational ministry—to embrace opportunities to teach, equipping themselves with the knowledge and confidence needed to effectively engage others with Scripture. This approach highlights that every believer has the capacity to contribute to a deeper understanding of the Bible within their community.
Confidence in Teaching
When preparing to teach the Bible, confidence should originate from the belief in God's Word as life-changing, rather than from personal charisma or mastery of the material. This perspective encourages educators to rely on both the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit to animate their message, acknowledging the divine power at work in the teaching process. The podcast discusses how effective teaching is rooted in prayer, preparation, and a deep understanding of the biblical text, rather than superficial self-assurance. Emphasizing the importance of divine reliance fosters a posture that is both humble and dependent on God's guidance.
The Role of the Local Church
The local church plays a crucial role in the development of effective Bible teachers, serving as an incubator for skills, feedback, and mentorship. This collaborative environment allows individuals to refine their teaching abilities through shared experiences and constructive criticism. The podcast discusses how independence in teaching can lead to deficiencies, as individuals may overlook the value of communal learning and support. By engaging with the local church, aspiring teachers can find the resources and encouragement needed to grow in their ability to handle Scripture faithfully.
In this episode, David Helm shares insights and advice on faithfully teaching the Bible in various contexts, emphasizing preparation, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and the central role of the local church.
David Helm serves as senior pastor of Christ Church Chicago. He also serves as chairman of the board of directors for the Charles Simeon Trust, an organization that promotes practical instruction in preaching. He is also the author of How Can I Begin to Teach the Bible? from Crossway.