Josh Hunt's latest book, The Effective Bible Teacher, is a timely book for Christians. Why? The reason is in the section titled Ignorance: "Numerous studies have demonstrated the lack of Bible knowledge both in and out of the church." A lack of Bible knowledge outside the church is one thing, but a lack of Bible knowledge inside the church is another. Without Effective Bible Teachers the situation will not get better. Effective Bible Teachers are necessary to make a difference in and out of the church.

This is a book that every Bible teacher should read and apply. This book is a valuable tool for the Bible teacher in so many areas. If the principles are applied, the teacher will grow in his or her own Christian walk, will lead others to do the same, will develop better relationships with his or her class/group as a whole and individually, and will make a difference in the teacher's own mission field - at home, at work, at church, and wherever they go. Be an Effective Bible Teacher.

An effective Bible teacher is worth his or her weight in gold. Josh Hunt's new book outlines what makes an effective Bible teacher, stressing the importance of seeing the group as individuals and building relationships with those individuals. Hunt explains that by showing each member that he or she is seen, heard, and has enormous value, those relationships grow and the group itself grows. Relationship-building should not only be between teacher and students, however, because relationships should develop between individuals by group members doing the same: show other members that they are seen, heard, and valued. Members (and teacher) should spend time together outside of the group setting. Socialize, share meals and outings, and nurture friendships that bloom into lifelong bonds. The more those friendships and relationships increase, the more effective the committed Bible teacher is, and the stronger the Bible class.

Hunt's thoughts on group material and discussion are well worth careful study. He reinforces the need for information and application that can be used in everyday life, with its real-world issues, concerns, and fears. Bible teachers who apply and use his ideas will find themselves far more effective than they ever thought possible.

Thanks, Josh, for another good one!