Sunday School -
A Look Ahead

As we look ahead, moving into the 21st century, we must concentrate on doing everything we can to re-emphasize the purpose that the Sunday School fulfills. We, as the Church of God, must renew our commitment to evangelism, discipleship, assimilation, worship, and service, . . . all of which can be accomplished through the Sunday School!

Times have indeed changed! People have changed! The original purpose of the Sunday School is not the intent of the contemporary Sunday School. The purpose has changed. Methods may need to change. God's Word will remain constant, but the manner in which we share the timeless truths may need to be altered. New models utilizing contemporary alternatives need to be examined. Facilities should be evaluated in the light of Christian education. Teachers must be trained to know how to better share Scriptural truths so that the learners are learning and growing in the faith. We cannot continue to conduct business as usual and expect different results!

There are some traditions which will need to be laid to rest . . . teacher elections, boring classes, untrained workers, lecture only teaching, separate classes for boys and girls. We must examine and evaluate the times in which we live! There must be "men of Isacchar" who understand the times and know what to do in order to be more effective.

The Church of God has the power through Jesus Christ to propel the Sunday School into the 21st century. It may not look the same, or carry the same name or title, but its Scriptural purpose and role can be fulfilled. Our teachers must teach with the anointing of the Holy Spirit, He who enlightens, bringing to light that which He wants us to know so that we can grow up in the faith and knowledge of our Lord and Savior.