Reasons Why I Should Attend Bible Classes

I am not sure how many readers will recognize the name of Bobby Duncan.  He labored for years as the preacher for the Adamsville Church of Christ near Birmingham, Alabama.  I have been blessed to receive some of his old outlines.  Recently, I used some of his material on three different Wednesday night classes.  At the conclusion of the study, it was encouraged that I put the material in the bulletin for individuals to have their own copy of such.  So, the following are fifteen reasons why each Christian should attend Bible classes.

Number one:  It is a delightful way to obey a Scriptural command (2 Tim. 2:15; 4:13; 2 Pet. 1:5-8; 3:18; John 5:39).  Christians are to gain in their knowledge through a study of the Scriptures.  Bible classes serve as a great opportunity to further our knowledge in an environment that is conducive to asking questions and getting answers.

Number two:  Because I want to imitate first century Christianity (Acts 2:41-47; 17:11).  The early church “gladly received the word.”  The brethren in Berea are remembered for “searching the Scriptures daily.”  Today, brethren should enjoy learning more of the Bible.  We should not look at it as burdensome chore.  There are some people who would love to have the Bible classes that we often take for granted.

Number three:  I want my children to become children of God (Prov. 22:6; Eph. 6:4).  Parents, especially and specifically fathers, have a responsibility to make sure that their children are taught God’s Word.  Early development of Bible study can be critical in getting young people to grow into adults that are Bible learned.  While some parents might feel a little inadequate in teaching their children, Bible classes act as a supplement to what the children learn at home.

Number four:  I like to be with my brothers and sisters (Rom. 12:10; 1 John 3:14; 4:7).  Friend, if we do not like being with fellow Christians here on Earth, what makes us believe that we will be with them in Heaven?  My brothers and sisters are my family.  I am commanded to love them.  It is hard to say that I really care for them when I avoid them.  Their encouragement builds me up and in turn my encouragement builds them up.  It is known as edification.

Number five:  I want to do good/abound in good works (Eccl. 9:10; James 2:18; 4:17; Rev. 2:2, 9, 13, 19; 3:1, 8, 15; 14:13; 20:12-13).  The life of a Christian is to be filled with doing good works.  Seeing as how God is good, the works that a Christian do should be godly.  Contrary to what some believe, performing works of obedience and righteousness are required of faithful children of God.

Number six:  I want to be consistent (Titus 1:16).  Christians should not be wishy washy when it comes to what they do.  If I am going to profess to know God, then I must not shirk assembling when the eldership prescribes.  I do not need to be the type of person who does not practice what he preaches.

Number seven:  I must protect my good influence (Matt. 5:13-16; Rom. 14:7).  Every one of us is watched by others.  We will not be the salt of the earth and the light of the world if we are found to be unfaithful in attending Bible classes.  I will seem hypocritical in trying to get others to come if I refuse myself.

Number eight:  It helps to keep my spiritual temperature high (Rev. 3:15-16).  I need to be on fire for the Lord, and I cannot say that I am when I neglect opportunities to study and grow.  We should never become complacent.

Number nine:  I love the local congregation (1 Thess. 1:2).  Paul would remember brethren from congregations that he attended.  He would often pray for them.  I should love the membership of the congregation of which I am a member, and I should help to make it as strong as possible.

Number ten:  I respect the eldership (Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17).  Christians are to obey their local elderships.  The elders have the authority from God to lead the local congregation.  If they say assemble, then it is my responsibility and duty to be there.

Number eleven:  I want to keep my scale of values properly adjusted (Matt. 6:33).  How can I truly be putting the kingdom of God and His righteousness first in my life when I refuse to assemble to study His righteousness/commandments (Psm. 119:172).  My spiritual life will be out of balance if I neglect Bible classes.

Number twelve:  I love the truth (Matt. 5:6; 2 Thess. 2:10-12).  The truth is the Word of God (John 17:17).  I should love God’s Word.  If I truly love something, will I neglect it?

Number thirteen:  I love the Lord and want to reverence God (Luke 6:46; John 14:15).  Jesus made it clear that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments.  We cannot truly show God our love if we refuse to obey, and yes that includes Bible classes.  God is so much higher than all of us, and He deserves our loyalty and respect.

Number fourteen:  I want to be a good example (1 Tim. 4:12).  Timothy was commanded to be an example to the believers.  We, in like manner, should be good examples to our brethren.  Believe it or not, others notice when we neglect Bible classes.  It is disappointing to see brethren forsake a time to assemble.

Number fifteen:  I will be judged by the Bible (John 12:48).  Today, we live under the New Testament, and as such we will be held accountable to It.  It would behoove me to learn as much as I can of God’s Word so that I know whether I am faithful or not.  Ignorance will not be an acceptable excuse on Judgment Day.

If you have been neglecting Bible classes, I hope that these fifteen reasons will encourage you to start attending regularly.  I am thankful to brother Duncan for compiling these reasons so many years ago.
~ Corey Barnette