Why does my church need teacher training?
“… to equip the saints for the work of ministry …” Ephesians 4:12
Churches are always in need of qualified teachers for Sunday School, Bible studies, or other teaching ministries in the local body. Many of the necessary qualifications for teachers have to do with a person’s character and must be evaluated in the context of the local church. A person must also have the ability to teach and knowledge of the subject he or she is teaching. The ability to teach is learned through guidance and experience in the local church. Knowledge of the subject matter is learned through prayerful study.
Because each individual teacher or aspiring teacher is unique, there is no “one-size-fits-all” program that is suitable for everyone. Different men and women will have different levels of knowledge on various topics. Some will need further instruction on the content of Scripture. Others will need further instruction in the basics of Christian doctrine. The leadership of each local church must determine what level of knowledge its teachers must have.
In order to assist in the training of both current and aspiring teachers, Ligonier Academy offers a number of certificates. Several subjects of study are available at different levels: Introductory, Intermediate, and Advanced. Leadership should examine the various courses and determine which certificate or combination of certificates would be best suited to the individual. Ligonier Academy recommends that Sunday School teachers be familiar with at least the content of the Introductory level Biblical Studies and Systematic Theology certificates.
Ligonier Academy also offers a suggested reading list on a number of subjects important for Sunday School teachers to know. If a local church determines that an individual teacher needs supplemental study on a particular topic, the books on this list may be of use. This list is provided as a resource for local churches, to assist them as they prepare their own Sunday School teachers. It should be used in whatever way suits the church's specific needs.
