In setting goals for adult ministries, think about the phrase “teach us to number our days” from Psalm 90:12 as a starting point. We need to make adult ministry instructional to ensure adults build their lives on a good foundation of truth so when the storms of life hit, they’ll be able to stand firm (Matt. 7:24-27).
It doesn’t matter if you serve adults new to faith in Jesus or long-time believers. We never stop learning. Remember the words of the Apostle Paul:
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. (Phil. 3:12)
The psalmist spoke the words “teach us” as a prayer to the Lord so it’s God’s instruction we need which comes from His Word. — All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness … (2 Tim. 3:16-17)
Let’s not assume that just because we’re teaching or serving adults that we can ease up on the instructional aspect of ministry. It may be surprising just how many adults are Bible illiterate.
The Type of Instruction Adults Need
Adults need to know about the God we’re encouraging them to love and serve (Matt. 22:37-40). Always remember, however, that it must never end with merely knowing about God but rather knowing Him in a personal and intimate way.
For Help: Theology Resources
They need to learn about spiritual disciplines that lead to spiritual growth (2 Pet. 3:18). Structure nurturing opportunities into your ministries but also encourage them to make personal time with the Lord a priority. The busier we become with life’s responsibilities, the easier it can become to spend less and less time sitting at the Lord’s feet listening to what He has to say. Help adults understand that it’s a choice to make time with the Lord a priority. Read Luke 10:38-42.
For Help: Spiritual Growth Resources
And, adults need to be prepared to answer those who ask them to give the reason for their hope (1 Pet. 3:15). How will they be secure in their faith when confronted with other worldviews or religions? How will they help others come to faith in Jesus if they don’t know why they believe what they believe?
For Help: Apologetics Resources
Yet, Psalm 90:12 takes us beyond head knowledge to gaining “a heart of wisdom”. Basically, wisdom is knowledge applied to life. For our adult ministries to truly meet this goal, we need to help adults understand the difference these truths will make in navigating life as a single or married person, in child-rearing or grandparenting, in the workplace, or with friends, neighbors, and family.
How to Make Adult Ministry Instructional
Whet their appetite for more by the way you approach the instructional aspect of adult ministries. Make it interesting by employing creative methodology but most of all, make it relevant. Mere dissemination of facts will have minimal effect.
Show them how God’s Word thoroughly equips them (2 Tim. 3:16-17) to navigate life, no matter how difficult it becomes. Do that through personal testimonies, illustrations, video clips, and other means.
Help them process the truths they’re learning, by incorporating plenty of discussion time and by being available for one-on-one as needed. Get beyond one-way communication.
Foster discipleship and mentoring relationships. Be concerned about the individual, not just the masses, like Jesus. A “one-size-fits-all” approach in the instructional aspect of adult ministry will not reach all.
For More: Teacher Training for Teachers of Adults Bible Classes