In some churches the adult Sunday School is on auto pilot !

RenewingThe

AdultSunday School

Bill AlphinVirginia Baptist Mission Board

6/20/06

What is required to renew the adult Sunday School?

• A transformed vision for ministry.• A redefining of the purpose and

role of the adult Sunday School in disciple making.

• A Transformed leadership base.• A church structure that supports a

balanced church ministry for adults.

Disciple making requires a system of groups that providesthree levels of relationships...

• Celebration/Worship group: (Unity)

• ABF or Sunday School: (Fellowship/Networking)

• Cell or small group: (Intimacy/accountability)

Entry ThroughWorship

AssimilateThe Adult

Sunday SchoolClass/Dept.

MoveTo

AppropriateGroups

(Discipleship)

Small GroupMinistries

Key: The desire for “more”.

About the Adult Sunday School:• Sunday School groups must be open.

Open groups should not develop “intimacy”.

• Sunday School groups do not have the allotted time needed to develop “intimacy” in relationships.

• Sunday School provides for assimilation/evangelism, basic “quality” Bible study and caring. (Think of a three leg stool.)

• As participants desire “more” they are directed to small group participation.

The schedule and sequence for a renewed adult Sunday

School class:

• Fellowship-Networking (15 min.)

• Well planned Bible Study (30 min.)

• Prayer and care time (10 min.)

Transformed Leadership• Mentoring by the pastor/staff.• Developing disciples that

become visionary leaders through small group experiences.

• Communicate ministry vision and leadership expectations at point of enlistment.

• Continued training provide for leaders.

Caution:

Many “contemporary”church models do not have traditionsthat include adult Sunday Schools.

Therefore, they often attempt tomake small groups accomplish thetasks Virginia Baptist churchesassign to the adult Sunday School.