The success of any Bible study or small group program depends heavily on the Bible study leader. If you lead a group – no matter the size or venue – your leadership will influence others. Leaders can’t control everything, but there are some things we can do to increase our effectiveness.
I’ve led groups of every size, both in-person and online. I’ve recruited, trained, and managed other leaders. Over the years, I’ve noticed some common attributes among leaders who make a positive spiritual impact on their group members. Although not an exhaustive list, these characteristics are ones all leaders can work to incorporate into their small group ministry and leadership.
7 Characteristics of Effective Bible Study Leaders
- We are students – Leaders don’t have to know everything about the Bible, but we do need to be constantly learning. Do your best to study the lesson’s passage and don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.” (For a doable, everyday Bible study method see “4 R Bible Study Method for Everyday Use.“
- We are disciples – Our students need leaders they can follow. Like Paul, I want to be able to say: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). It’s easy to get lazy in our own discipleship, but we can be proactive by enlisting a mentor or accountability partner who will pray for us and ask us the hard questions. Let’s set a godly example for our groups in prayer, spiritual growth, holiness, and commitment to the body of Christ.
- We are transparent – Share honestly from your own life and spiritual journey. A “perfect” leader discourages the group members. A leader who talks about her own struggles with life and faith connects with the women and encourages them to open up too! (See Paul’s example in 2 Corinthians 1:8-11.)
- We are passionate – Passion for God’s Word and work is contagious. Don’t be afraid to show some excitement over what God is teaching you and about what He has been doing around you. Your spark will start a fire!
- We are jealous – Paul had the attitude of a mother bear when it came to his spiritual children (2 Corinthians 11:2-6). As leaders and teachers of God’s Word, let’s diligently protect their hearts and minds against false teaching. Don’t’ be afraid to stand firm for the truth.
- We are investors – Each student has individual needs. Good leaders take time to know the students and their needs. Connect with them outside of class. Encourage them with calls, emails, and Facebook messages. Pray for them and let them know you’re praying for them.
- We are reproducers – Effective leaders are always looking for and developing new leaders. Your women’s ministry, small group program, or ministry can have strong leadership now and in the future through purposeful leadership development. See “The 5 M Plan of Leadership Development” for more information.
You are a Spiritual Leader in Your Family
Even if you don’t formally lead a Bible study group of some kind, you are a spiritual leader. Your family looks to you to help and encourage them in their relationship with God. The characteristics listed above apply here too! Watch for my new devotional “Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith” coming in September! This 52-day devotional weaves faith stories of the past with genealogy research tips and practical ideas for instilling faith in your family.
Which of the characteristics above do you struggle with most? Which characteristic have you seen make a positive difference in a group?
You might also be interested in these articles/books on spiritual leadership:
- 9 Essential Qualities of a Godly Leader
- 6 Characteristics of Spiritual Leaders
- Spiritual Leadership: Moving People On to God’s Agenda by Henry and Richard Blackaby
LOVE this Kathy!! Great insight for Bible teachers and those who feel led to become Bible teachers!
Thanks Stephanie! Great leaders don’t have to have all the answers or a seminary degree. The right heart and attitude can make a great impact!
Thank you for this, Kathy! I’ve started a Women’s Bible study…on paper but haven’t been able to launch it yet for various reasons.
These are excellent tips to keep on the forefront of my mind even now!
Hi Kela, thanks for stopping by! I love women’s Bible study. May God open the door for you to get yours up and running soon!
Great advice! I need to work on #7. I invest some out of class, but I could do a better job. Transparency makes a huge difference. If someone notes a connection, it’s usually to something said in transparency.
Kari, you are so right about transparency! Women want to know the leaders are for real and have struggles just like they do!
Kathy, This is exactly what I needed to read! I am teaching two classes this fall.
Hi Carmen! I’m so glad the post was encouraging!
A great list, Kathy. I can use all of them! I started a study a couple weeks ago and I’m so fortunate that the ladies are comfortable in sharing their experiences and what God’s teaching them.
Hi Sherry! Are you leading at church or in your home?
Thanks so much for these reminders. I’ve just sat down to prepare notebooks for our ladies class this fall. These words remind me of the importance of keeping everything in perspective and working diligently to protect “His” word.
Hi Lee Ann, thanks for coming by! Sounds like you’re practicing good leadership over your leaders! Do you do any formal training with them?
I am a male. I love your e-mails. They have been great. I have a lot of others also. They keep me in The Word Thank you Kathy
This is exactly what we Bible Study leaders/ Christian teachers do! Thanks for enumerating them. I also loved The 5 M Plan to Develop Bible Study Leaders.
Hi Lynn, thanks for stopping by! It is good to think about these things so we can be purposeful in our leadership.
Thanks God for your life your article it’s benefits for me, but can I print it out for use?
Feel free to print out one copy for your own use!
Kathy, Thank you for this great article. I came here looking for answers – the leaders at my Bible Study groups have decided to hand the baton. And I am aware I am the youngest of the group, so others most likely are looking for me to stand up. The questions are: should I or should I not? And can I? I have no training in leading, Bible, or the right personality. On top of that, I need to be away, often times for over a week, to take care of my cabin. During those times I will not be able to prepare for the class. Perhaps those questions belong to our LORD to answer. Please pray for me that the answers are given.
Hi! You are right, the big question is: “Did God call you to this ministry?” If the answer is “yes” then He will provide everything you need to obey Him! I’m glad you found this article helpful. There are some others here that might help you as well – here are a couple: https://www.kathyhoward.org/5-challenges-group-discussion/
https://www.kathyhoward.org/4-personalities-derail-group-discussion/