By David Sproule
Not all churches of Christ have Bible classes on Sundays and Wednesdays. Of course, there is not a verse that requires to have such classes and it does not violate any New Testament commands or principles, so it is not sinful if a church has them or if a church does not have them. This is one of those areas of judgment (in the realm of expediency) where elders choose what they believe is best for their congregation.
Of course, everyone has their own opinions. Some think the church has Bible classes because, “That is just tradition—it’s what they’ve always done.” There may be some truth to it being a tradition, but does that make it wrong or not worth my time? Others may think, “That’s just another way that the elders are trying to control things and force us to come, when there’s no command for us to do it.” Perhaps it would be good, in response to such thoughts, to remember that elders have their God-given responsibility to shepherd the flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2; 1 Tim. 3:5), feed the flock (John 21:15-17), and they will one day give an account for the souls placed in their care (Heb. 13:17). Therefore, we should do more “to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake” (1 Thess. 5:12-13).
So, when elders plan Bible classes for the members and for the children, why should we make it a priority to attend and participate each week?
1. To build my faith (Rom. 10:17).
2. To study my favorite book (2 Tim. 2:15).
3. To get out “of the world” for a while (John 17:14).
4. To learn something new (Rom. 15:4).
5. To learn something old (2 Pet. 3:1-2).
6. To show my love for God’s Word (Psa. 19:7-11).
7. To be with my favorite people (Acts 2:42-46).
8. To encourage my brethren (1 Thess. 5:11).
9. To be encouraged by my brethren (Heb. 10:24).
10. To encourage the teacher who has studied and made preparations for the class (Acts 17:11).
11. To be where the Lord would love to see me (Jas. 4:8).
12. To be where Satan does not want me (Jas. 4:7).
I am confident that you could come up with more than just a dozen good reasons to be in Bible class each week. What would you add to this list? I am thankful that our elders are concerned about our souls and our spiritual growth. May we take advantage of every opportunity to study and grow!