Organizing a women’s Bible study can be simple. It can also be complicated—at least from the viewpoint of making sure you are prepared and ready to go. However you are planning your next study, here are ten questions you should ask before you begin.
1. What study are we going to do? This is probably the most basic question you will need to answer, but pick a study that is theologically sound and a good fit for the group who will attend. If the group is older, a study for younger moms might not be a great fit.
2. Where will you meet? Will you meet in a home? In the church? In a coffee shop? Make sure your location is large enough for the group who will attend.
3. When will you meet? Consider the schedule of those who might attend as well as your church schedule if you plan to meet there. Daytime studies are great for senior adults or stay-at-home moms, but working women will appreciate a study that meets in the evening.
4. Will you have childcare? If so, consider who you need to meet with and how childcare will be paid for. Is childcare covered by your church budget or will women need to help with cost? Are you offering childcare for infants and preschoolers or will you include home-schooled children?
5. Will you need small group leaders? If your group is larger than 15, consider multiplying groups. Enlist women who can facilitate discussion and are trustworthy Bible study students.
6. How will you communicate and promote the study? Do you plan to invite all women? If so, who is handling this communication? Does it need to be on your church website? Social media? Announcements on Sunday? Consider all the possibilities.
7. How will you handle prayer requests? This question could be handled after Bible study begins, but you can be proactive and decide how you will receive prayer requests and how much time you will allot. If the goal is Bible study, consider having a prayer strategy and possibly a prayer coordinator.
8. Will you offer refreshments? Will you offer coffee? Will you offer snacks? Who is responsible? If your study is in the morning, many women may not have time to grab breakfast before Bible study. If it’s in the evening, many women may be coming straight from work.
9. How will you handle money? Will women purchase their Bible study resource on their own or will you offer to pre-purchase books? What is your church policy on receiving money? Is there someone you need to meet with in the finance office? If you are handling money, handle it with integrity.
10. Will you offer a missional component? Consider how you want your study to mobilize women for action. Will you adopt a ministry project? Look for opportunities within your church or focus on a community outreach project. Move women from Bible study to action. As James says, “Be doers of the word and not just hearers only.”
Kelly King is the Women’s Ministry Specialist for Lifeway Christian Resources and oversees the YOU Lead events. Join her this year and get to know her heart for ministry leaders. Follow her on Twitter @kellydking.