What Sunday School Leaders Do

In my experience working with various Sunday Schools across Ohio and other states, it has become clear to me that many Sunday Schools and Sunday School classes have been working on autopilot for many years. There are people serving in many Sunday Schools who are content to manage the status quo. There is little effort to reach new people or grow the ministry. In fact, I have run into some who reject the idea that the mission of the Sunday School is to reach new people for Christ.

I’ve had teachers in other churches openly reject the idea that a Sunday School leader has any responsibility when it comes to the spiritual growth, the numerical growth and the ministry of their class. It has been said, “It is my job to grow the class deeper, and it is God’s job to grow the class larger.” While that may sound deep, and even a little spiritual, it simply isn’t true! There is no biblical basis for such a comment. It has been my experience that the difference between a growing Sunday School and a stagnant one is the willingness of pastors, teachers and workers to accept responsibility in three key areas. It’s what Sunday School leaders do.

Accept responsibility for the maturity of the class. I have discovered along the way that I cannot force anyone to grow up as a Christian. Some folks decide to remain spiritual babes no matter what we do or say. I can, however, do my part to provide an environment for growth. Anyone who has ever had a garden understands the concept. Only God can make the plants grow, mature and bear fruit. But when the gardener gives time and effort to prepare the soil, provide a safe, sunny spot and water the plants regularly, the Lord is much more likely to grow the seedlings into healthy, reproducing plants. As Sunday School leaders, we are to provide regular prayer, biblical, interesting teaching and a personal interest in the spiritual growth of our enrollees.

Accept responsibility for the ministry of the class. Each Christian has been given spiritual gifts and abilities in order to minister to one another in the church. Each Christian is also called to be on mission with God in various ways. A leader doesn’t wait for someone else to get the class involved in ministry to one another. If an enrollee is sick, a leader takes action to meet the need. If a member has been absent, a leader initiates involvement in the absentee’s life. Waiting for someone else to do the ministry usually means someone “falls through the cracks” and they eventually stop attending.

Accept responsibility for the growth of the class. Growth is not a matter of luck or some mystical blessing. Of course only God can save and bring spiritual development to a person, and there are things beyond a teacher’s control like job transfers, illnesses and people relocating to another town or state. But God blesses the hard work of outreach, a good spirit in the class and competent teaching. These are things a Sunday School leader can influence. When we do our part, we can confidently trust the Lord to do His part.

I realize it is difficult to accept these responsibilities as a Sunday School leader. There is a lot depending on the success of your class. I am reminded of James 3:1 that says, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.” Sometimes it is easier to let someone else carry the burden of responsibility, but then again, there is nothing quite so fulfilling as seeing God use you to impact lives for His glory. Thank you for serving and accepting the task the Lord has given you.