| Questions Group Leaders Ask What
do I do if people give the wrong answer?
Seekers in your study might very well give unbiblical answers to a question.
You have to make a decision at that point whether to confront it or simply
let it go. We want seekers in our studies to have the freedom to share
their thoughts and opinions and it is important that they feel respected
and listened to. In the first few weeks of your studies it is best to let
some of these answers go unchecked. You can affirm their response without
agreeing to it. Here is an example from an actual 10 Keys group. In the
first session, someone mentioned that they believe the world and people
evolved but God oversaw the process. The leader decided that it was best
not to go into a lengthy debate of this subject and simply said something
to the effect that many people do believe that. He then guided the group
back to what the implications of each theory were.
Another way to handle a wrong answer is defer to the
group. You can say something like; "What do the rest of you think?" This allows
the true answer to come out in the discussion naturally.
Another option is to bring the group back to a scripture
passage. You can say something like: "Well, we're here to understand what the Bible
has to say. Let's see if this passage sheds any light on the subject."
It is a tough job leading a group with seekers. God
will give you discernment when to let something go, when to defer to
the group and when to take
them back to scripture.
How can I make a seeker feel comfortable?
Put yourself in their shoes. Many seekers do not have a lot of Bible
knowledge so they are concerned they will look foolish. You can
help to diffuse this
by keeping the discussion at a basic level. Don't use Christian
jargon they will not understand. Don't put them on the spot by
calling on
them to answer. They will answer when they are ready. Also, seekers
are concerned
they will be pressured into believing something or will be preached
at. This is why it is very important for you to allow seekers to
discover the truths of the Bible themselves. Hold yourself back.
Let them discuss
their
ideas and come to conclusions on their own about what the Bible
is saying.
What should I do when people quit showing up?
Most people will not be able to attend all ten sessions. If someone
misses a session, you might just want to let it go. If they miss
two in a row
it might be worth e-mailing or calling them to let them know
you missed them. In the conversation you could ask if there was
anything
that
drove them away. You might learn something valuable that will
help you to lead
more effectively next time. Above all, don't make them feel pressured
or guilty if they decide to drop out. God is not on our timeline
and may have
a different plan for them.
What if the Christians in my group are dominating the study so
the seekers don't have a chance to say anything?
This can happen and you need to address it immediately. After
the study, talk to the Christians alone and tell them that you
want
to help draw
out those who are newer to Bible Study. Enlist them as you ally
in the process.
Encourage them to hold back so the others will talk.
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