Teaching the Bible to Young People

Who have no knowledge of God or the Bible

Teaching the Bible to young individuals who are unfamiliar with its concepts can be a rewarding and transformative experience. The Bible is not merely a religious text but a collection of stories, teachings, history, and wisdom. Here are some approaches on how to introduce it effectively.

Start with the Basics

Begin by discussing the overarching structure of the Bible. Explain that it consists of two main sections:

1. The Old Testament: This is a collection of texts before Jesus’ time, including creation stories, histories, poetry, and prophecies.
2. The New Testament: Focused on the life and teachings of Jesus, the spread of early Christianity, and letters of advice and encouragement to new churches.

Use Engaging Stories

Many stories in the Bible are full of adventure, intrigue, and valuable lessons. Start with universally relatable themes such as friendship, courage, and justice. For example:

• David and Goliath: A tale of courage and faith against great odds.
• Daniel in the Lion’s Den: Demonstrating integrity and trust.

Teach Core Values

The Bible is a treasure trove of moral instruction. Highlight stories and teachings that impart ethical values:

• The Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31).
• The Good Samaritan: Emphasises the importance of showing kindness to all, regardless of their background.

Encourage Questions

Young people will have many questions, and there should be an environment where they feel comfortable asking them. Discussions should be open and non-judgmental.

Connect to Daily Life

Draw connections between biblical teachings and everyday situations young people face. This makes the Bible relevant and shows its wisdom is timeless.

Use Creative Learning Methods

Utilise various methods that cater to different learning styles:

• Arts and crafts: Drawing scenes from a story, or building a Noah’s Ark model.
• Drama and role-play: Acting out biblical events.
• Music: Singing songs inspired by Psalms or other biblical passages.

Be Culturally Sensitive

Remember that young people might come from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to contextualise the Bible in a way that is respectful to different cultures and viewpoints.

Encourage Personal Reflection

Finally, suggest keeping a journal to reflect on what they’ve learned and how it applies to their lives. Personal engagement with the text can promote deeper understanding and retention.

Teaching the Bible to those unfamiliar with it is not just about imparting knowledge but about fostering understanding, curiosity, and, for those who choose, faith. It’s a journey that, when navigated with care and sensitivity, can be incredibly enriching for young minds.