This month’s Teach the Word article is by Pastor Jonathan Bilitz. Pastor Bilitz is a 1996 Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary graduate. He serves at Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel in Madison, WI, and is a member of the Western Wisconsin District’s Commission on Discipleship.
“If you build it, he will come.” In the movie Field of Dreams, a voice whispers these words to Ray (Kevin Costner) in an Iowa cornfield.
The idea is simple: Build something, and people will come. Host a Bible study, and people will join. When I began my ministry, the standard model for a Bible information class (BIC) was to set a specific day and time and then invite people interested in learning more about the Bible. However, when my ministry with college students began, I realized a different approach was needed. Although this approach is more time-intensive, the benefits have proven to be worth it. My method with college students is to work individually with each person.
College students have busy lives and are often hesitant to commit to a weekly BIC that spans several months. Tests, projects, and work commitments create a constantly shifting schedule. When someone missed a class, we scrambled to find time for making up the instruction time, which was not ideal. It became clear that a new approach was necessary.
Before starting a BIC, I meet with each prospective student for an initial consultation. During this meeting, they answer questions about their religious background, general biblical knowledge, and specific areas of interest. Based on this information, I tailor the approach to the class. Some students benefit most from a full lesson-by-lesson format, where they prepare each lesson and we discuss it in full. Others prefer to study two or three lessons independently and then bring their questions or points of clarification to our meetings. Students seem to appreciate this flexibility and the focused, personalized approach.
Like many pastors, I have benefited from materials prepared by others for BICs. Currently, I use a course called Bible Basics, compiled by Pastor Lucas Bitter from Intown Lutheran Church in Atlanta, Georgia. This course is simple to use yet comprehensive. I particularly appreciate its emphasis on the sacraments and the thorough set of appendices that allow for deeper exploration of certain topics. The material ensures that the lessons on Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are taught thoroughly to avoid misunderstandings. The format of Bible Basics offers an easy-to-follow presentation of biblical truths.
In essence, this method transforms a BIC into a modified flipped classroom, where students do much of the work on their own before our meetings, allowing our discussions to focus on their specific questions. In this way, they become their own teachers, guided by the provided materials. One advantage of working with college students is their aptitude for learning. They are immersed in university-level classes daily and are adept at absorbing new material.
Admittedly, this approach to teaching BICs is a bit unconventional. I’ve had to adjust my mindset from being the teacher in control to being a guide. The power of the Spirit working through his Word has been wonderful to witness. I’m often impressed by the questions students ask, sometimes on topics I hadn’t planned on covering. This approach to BICs clearly demonstrates that the Word is living and active. It’s like having a front-row seat to the Spirit’s work!
Another significant blessing of this discussion-based BIC approach is the personal time spent with each student. These collaborative efforts benefit both me and the students. The format allows them to ask questions freely, without concern about what others might think. There is no pressure to keep the class moving—we are able to take as much time as needed to discuss the topic. I also get to know each student more deeply, building mutual respect. The students trust that their questions will be answered based on biblical truths. I also inquire about their lives, seeking understanding for the reasons behind their concerns and questions. At the end of each class, I offer a prayer specific to what we discussed and the student’s circumstances. It’s a truly rewarding experience. All things considered, the benefits far outweigh any drawbacks.
My setting on a campus with college students who are accomplished learners is unique. This BIC teaching concept might not work everywhere. However, I’ve appreciated the opportunity to make each student an active participant in learning biblical doctrine, and most have responded well to the challenge. I joyfully await new discoveries of the grace that God has waiting for each student and me in this process. I pray for the Lord’s blessings and guidance and the continual growth of his kingdom.
“If you build it, he will come.” What does an Iowa cornfield and a pickup baseball game have to do with Bible information class? Maybe not much at first glance. However, those words could serve as a paraphrase of our Savior’s promise of the Holy Spirit, the counselor who will teach us all things (John 14:26). As we build our BIC curriculum, he will come—with his power, love, and blessings.
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