ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR YOUR TEACHING (Continued):
Bible Reading Plan Suggestion:
52-Week Plan: Read through the entire Bible in one year
90-Day Plan: Intensive reading for deeper immersion
Chronological Plan: Read events in the order they occurred
Thematic Plan: Focus on specific themes (faith, prayer, love, etc.)
Recommended Starting Points for New Believers:
Gospel of John – Understanding who Jesus is
Romans – Understanding salvation
Psalms – Learning to pray and worship
Proverbs – Gaining wisdom for daily life
Acts – Learning about the early church
TEACHING TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE BIBLE STUDY PRESENTATION:
1. Engagement Techniques:
Use Call and Response:
“When I say ‘God is,’ you say ‘Good!’”
“When I ask ‘Who’s the hero?’ you say ‘Jesus!’”
Creates energy and participation
Incorporate Testimony:
Share personal stories of how specific scriptures changed your life
Ask congregation members to share brief testimonies
Makes the Bible relevant and real
Use Visual Aids:
Timeline of Bible events on a banner or screen
Maps showing Paul’s missionary journeys
Simple drawings or symbols for each book
Ask Rhetorical Questions:
Pause for effect after important questions
Let silence create space for the Holy Spirit
Don’t rush to answer your own questions
2. Managing Group Responses:
For Small Groups (under 30):
Encourage open discussion
Call on specific people by name
Create safe space for “wrong” answers
For Large Congregations (30+):
Use “turn to your neighbor” discussions
Have people share in pairs, then share highlights with whole group
Use raised hands for multiple choice questions
For Mixed Age Groups:
Simplify language for children
Provide deeper insights for mature believers
Use examples that span generations
3. Time Management:
For 1-Hour Session:
Introduction: 5 minutes
Old Testament overview: 15 minutes
Life of Jesus: 15 minutes
Early Church & Letters: 15 minutes
Revelation & Conclusion: 10 minutes
For 2-Hour Session:
Go deeper into each section
Add more discussion time
Include small group breakouts
Add worship/prayer between sections
For Multi-Week Series:
Week 1: Genesis through Kings
Week 2: Prophets and Wisdom Literature
Week 3: Life and Teachings of Jesus
Week 4: Acts and Paul’s Letters
Week 5: General Letters and Revelation
COMMON QUESTIONS PEOPLE ASK (Be Prepared to Answer):
About the Bible Itself:
Q: “Why are there different Bible translations?”
A: “The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Different translations try to balance word-for-word accuracy (like NASB, ESV) with readability (like NIV, NLT). All reputable translations convey God’s message faithfully. Choose one that you can understand and that encourages you to read God’s Word regularly.”
Q: “How do we know the Bible is accurate?”
A: “We have more manuscript evidence for the Bible than any other ancient document. Over 5,800 Greek manuscripts of the New Testament exist, some dating within decades of the originals. The Dead Sea Scrolls confirmed the accuracy of Old Testament texts. Archaeological discoveries consistently verify biblical accounts. Most importantly, the Bible’s internal consistency across 1,500 years and 40+ authors points to divine inspiration.”
Q: “What about books that aren’t in the Bible (Apocrypha)?”
A: “The Apocrypha are books written between the Old and New Testaments. They contain helpful historical information but were not included in the Hebrew Bible and are not considered divinely inspired Scripture by most Protestant churches. They lack the prophetic authority and apostolic authentication of canonical books. Catholics and Orthodox churches include them in their Bibles.”
Q: “Did the church decide what books go in the Bible?”
A: “The church recognized which books were inspired, but didn’t decide it. The books of the Bible authenticated themselves through: apostolic authorship or connection, consistency with established doctrine, widespread acceptance by early churches, and the transforming power they demonstrated. The process was essentially complete by 200 AD, formalized at councils in 397 and 419 AD.”
About Interpretation:
Q: “How do we know what’s literal and what’s symbolic?”
A: “Start with the literal meaning unless the text clearly indicates symbolism (like parables or apocalyptic literature). Consider: the author’s intent, the literary genre, the historical context, and how the original audience would have understood it. When Jesus said ‘I am the door,’ His audience knew He wasn’t claiming to be made of wood. Compare Scripture with Scripture – the Bible interprets itself.”
Q: “What about contradictions in the Bible?”
A: “Most apparent contradictions resolve when we understand: different perspectives (like four Gospel accounts), different purposes (Chronicles emphasizes temple worship while Kings emphasizes prophecy), ancient writing conventions (rounding numbers, thematic rather than chronological ordering), and copyist errors in transmission (which textual criticism can identify). No genuine contradiction exists in the original manuscripts that undermines core Christian doctrine.”
Q: “How do Old Testament laws apply to Christians today?”
A: “Old Testament laws fall into three categories:
Moral Law (Ten Commandments) – Still binding, reflects God’s character
Ceremonial Law (sacrifices, rituals) – Fulfilled in Christ, no longer required
Civil Law (governing Israel) – Not binding on modern nations, but principles apply
All Scripture is useful for teaching (2 Timothy 3:16), but Christians live under the New Covenant established by Jesus.”
About Application:
Q: “The Bible was written so long ago – how is it relevant today?”
A: “Human nature hasn’t changed! The same pride, fear, jealousy, love, and hope that people experienced 3,000 years ago, we experience today. The Bible addresses timeless questions: Who is God? Who am I? What’s my purpose? How should I live? What happens when I die? God’s character is unchanging, and His Word speaks to every generation. Hebrews 4:12 says the Word of God is ‘living and active’ – it’s not just ancient history, but God speaking to us now!”
Q: “I don’t understand everything I read – is that okay?”
A: “Yes! Even the apostle Peter said Paul’s letters contained ‘some things hard to understand’ (2 Peter 3:16). The Bible contains depths we’ll explore for a lifetime. Start with what’s clear – God loves you, Jesus died for you, you need salvation, live holy lives. As you grow, understanding increases. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you (John 16:13), study with mature believers, and keep reading. Don’t let what you don’t understand keep you from obeying what you do understand!”
Q: “How much time should I spend reading the Bible?”
A: “Quality matters more than quantity, but consistency is key. Even 10-15 minutes daily with focused attention is better than an hour once a week. Many find morning reading sets their day right. The Psalmist meditated on God’s Word day and night (Psalm 1:2). Start with a realistic goal and build from there. Remember: you’re not trying to check a box; you’re meeting with the living God through His Word!”
APOLOGETICS – DEFENDING THE FAITH:
Common Objections You May Encounter:
“The Bible is just a book written by men.”
Response: “Yes, God used human authors, but 2 Peter 1:21 says they were ‘carried along by the Holy Spirit.’ The Bible’s unity despite being written over 1,500 years by 40+ authors in different countries, languages, and circumstances, yet maintaining one consistent message about God and salvation, is evidence of divine authorship. No other religious text demonstrates this unity. The Bible’s fulfilled prophecies, its power to transform lives, and its accurate historical details all point to supernatural origin.”
“Science has disproven the Bible.”
Response: “Science and Scripture address different questions. Science asks ‘how?’ while the Bible answers ‘who?’ and ‘why?’ Many of history’s greatest scientists (Newton, Galileo, Kepler, Pasteur, Faraday) were believers who saw their work as exploring God’s creation. The Bible isn’t a science textbook, but where it touches on scientific matters, it’s accurate. For instance, Job 26:7 describes earth ‘hanging on nothing’ – remarkable for ancient times. Isaiah 40:22 refers to the ‘circle of the earth.’ True science and true Scripture never conflict because God authored both the Book of Nature and the Book of Scripture.”
“The Bible condones slavery/genocide/oppression.”
Response: “We must understand ancient contexts without compromising God’s character. Biblical ‘slavery’ was often indentured servitude (debt repayment), vastly different from race-based chattel slavery. God’s laws protected servants and required their release. The Bible plants seeds that led to slavery’s abolition – all humans made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), no Jew or Gentile in Christ (Galatians 3:28). Regarding Canaanite conquest, these were judicial judgments after 400 years of warning (Genesis 15:16), not ethnic cleansing. God is patient but just. We must trust that the Judge of all the earth does right (Genesis 18:25) even when we don’t fully understand His timing or methods.”
“Why are Christians so judgmental if they follow the Bible?”
Response: “That’s a fair observation, and I’m sorry you’ve experienced that. Jesus was harshest with religious hypocrites, not sinners. He ate with tax collectors and showed compassion to outcasts. True biblical Christianity is speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Yes, the Bible calls sin ‘sin’ – but it equally emphasizes God’s love, grace, and forgiveness. Christians who are judgmental aren’t following Jesus’ example. The Bible says to examine ourselves first (Matthew 7:3-5). We’re all broken people who’ve experienced grace, and we’re called to extend that grace to others. If someone claiming to follow the Bible hurt you, they weren’t representing Jesus well.”
SPECIAL TOPICS TO ADDRESS:
Women in the Bible:
Key Women to Highlight:
Eve – Mother of all living, shows consequences of sin but also God’s promise of redemption
Sarah – Mother of faith, believed God’s impossible promise
Rahab – Gentile saved by faith, in Jesus’ genealogy
Ruth – Loyalty and redemption, ancestor of David and Jesus
Esther – “For such a time as this” – courage to save her people
Mary – Mother of Jesus, “Let it be to me according to your word”
Mary Magdalene – First witness of resurrection
Priscilla – Teacher alongside her husband, taught Apollos
Phoebe – Deacon and Paul’s ministry partner
Teaching Point: “God uses women powerfully throughout Scripture. They’re prophets, judges, queens, missionaries, deacons, and the first evangelists of the resurrection. The Bible honors women’s dignity, faith, and service.”
Prophecies About Jesus:
Key Messianic Prophecies (For Deeper Study):
Born of a virgin – Isaiah 7:14 / Fulfilled: Matthew 1:18-25
Born in Bethlehem – Micah 5:2 / Fulfilled: Matthew 2:1
From David’s line – Jeremiah 23:5 / Fulfilled: Matthew 1:1
Preceded by messenger – Isaiah 40:3 / Fulfilled: Matthew 3:1-3
Rejected by His people – Isaiah 53:3 / Fulfilled: John 1:11
Silent before accusers – Isaiah 53:7 / Fulfilled: Matthew 27:12-14
Hands and feet pierced – Psalm 22:16 / Fulfilled: Luke 23:33
Crucified with criminals – Isaiah 53:12 / Fulfilled: Matthew 27:38
Garments divided – Psalm 22:18 / Fulfilled: John 19:23-24
No bones broken – Psalm 34:20 / Fulfilled: John 19:33-36
Resurrection – Psalm 16:10 / Fulfilled: Acts 2:31
Teaching Point: “Over 300 prophecies about the Messiah in the Old Testament were fulfilled in Jesus. The mathematical probability of one person fulfilling just 8 of these prophecies by chance is 1 in 100,000,000,000,000,000. This proves Jesus is the promised Messiah!”
The Gospel Message (Always Include):
The Romans Road:
Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”
Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”
Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”
Romans 10:9-10 – “If you confess with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved”
Romans 10:13 – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”
How to Lead Someone to Christ:
Acknowledge you’re a sinner
Believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again
Confess Jesus as Lord
Commit to follow Him
Sample Salvation Prayer:
“Father God, I admit I’m a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me. Help me live for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Always Follow Up:
Baptism
Church membership
Bible reading plan
Discipleship/mentoring
Service opportunities
MULTIMEDIA ENHANCEMENTS (If Available):
PowerPoint/Slides Suggestions:
Slide 1: Title
“Understanding the Bible: Genesis to Revelation”
APGCI Global Churches logo
Your name and date
Slide 2: Bible Overview
66 books, 40+ authors, 1,500 years, 1 message
Slide 3: Old Testament Timeline
Visual timeline from Creation (4000 BC) to Malachi (400 BC)
Slide 4: New Testament Timeline
Birth of Jesus (4 BC) to Revelation (95 AD)
Slide 5-15: Key Images
Creation (artistic rendering)
Red Sea crossing
David and Goliath
Jesus on cross
Empty tomb
Pentecost flames
Map of Paul’s journeys
New Jerusalem
Slide 16: Memory Verses
John 3:16
Romans 6:23
Ephesians 2:8-9
Slide 17: Call to Action
Read your Bible daily
Join a small group
Share your faith
Slide 18: Contact Information
APGCI website/social media
Service times
Next Bible study dates
Handouts to Provide:
Bible Reading Plan – 30-day or 90-day plan
Books of the Bible Chart – Visual breakdown with categories
Key Verses Sheet – Top 20 verses to memorize
Salvation Prayer Card – How to receive Christ
Small Group Schedule – Ongoing study opportunities
POST-SERMON FOLLOW-UP:
Immediate Actions:
During Altar Call:
Invite people to receive Christ
Offer prayer for rededication
Provide counselors for questions
Have decision cards available
After Service:
Greet people personally
Answer lingering questions
Collect contact information from visitors
Distribute resources
Week-Long Actions:
Day 1-2: Send follow-up email/text with:
Thank you for attending
Link to sermon notes/recording
This week’s Bible reading assignment
Invitation to next service
Day 3-4: Personal calls to:
First-time visitors
Anyone who made a decision
People who asked questions
Day 5-7: Social media engagement:
Post key quotes from sermon
Share testimonies (with permission)
Remind about upcoming events
Answer comments/questions
Monthly Follow-Up:
Track who’s engaging with Bible study
Identify those who need discipleship
Celebrate growth stories
Adjust teaching based on feedback
PRAYER POINTS FOR YOUR PREPARATION:
Before Teaching:
“Lord, anoint me to preach Your Word with power and clarity”
“Open the hearts of hearers to receive truth”
“Give me wisdom to answer questions”
“Help me communicate Your love along with truth”
“Remove any pride; let me decrease so You increase”
During Teaching:
“Holy Spirit, guide my words”
“Give me discernment for the room”
“Touch hearts that need salvation”
“Bring conviction where needed”
“Bring comfort where needed”
After Teaching:
“Thank You for the opportunity to serve”
“Water the seeds planted today”
“Bring forth fruit from this teaching”
“Protect the people from deception”
“Continue the work You’ve begun”
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT FOR YOU, APOSTLE MULOVERY:
Remember:
You are called – God has appointed you to this work (1 Timothy 4:14)
You are equipped – The Holy Spirit empowers you (Acts 1:8)
You are accountable – “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2)
You are not alone – God goes before you and is with you (Deuteronomy 31:8)
Your labor is not in vain – God’s Word never returns empty (Isaiah 55:11)
Teaching Dos:
✓ Pray before, during, and after teaching
✓ Know your material thoroughly
✓ Make eye contact with your audience
✓ Use personal stories and testimonies
✓ Invite participation and questions
✓ Speak with passion and conviction
✓ Apply Scripture to daily life
✓ End with clear call to action
✓ Follow up with attendees
✓ Continuously improve your craft
Teaching Don’ts:
✗ Don’t apologize for God’s Word
✗ Don’t rush through important points
✗ Don’t read slides verbatim
✗ Don’t ignore the room’s energy
✗ Don’t go overtime without permission
✗ Don’t make it about you
✗ Don’t skip the gospel message
✗ Don’t leave people without hope
✗ Don’t forget to give altar call
✗ Don’t neglect follow-up
CLOSING BENEDICTION (To Use at End):
“Now may the God who gave us His Word, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Word made flesh, and the Holy Spirit who illuminates the Word, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Go forth as doers of the Word, not hearers only. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all, now and forevermore. Amen!”
God bless your ministry, Apostle Jean Mulovery!
May this comprehensive guide serve you well as you teach God’s people to understand and love His Word from Genesis to Revelation!
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV)
APGCI Global Churches – Equipping the Saints, Transforming Nations, Advancing God’s Kingdom