Do We Assume Too Much?

Jim Parlier
Temple Terrace, Florida

Sometimes Bible teachers spend so much time preparing their lessons for class that they fail to realize what really is lacking in class education. Recently I asked my teen-college class some so-called simple questions that we all know (?/, and the results were shocking to say the least. Out of seven students:

(1) Only two (2) knew the man of wisdom in the Bible.

(2) Only one (1) knew the man of patience.

(3) Only two (2) knew the parts of the Godhead.

(4) Only three (3) knew the five steps to becoming a Christian, although all of them were members of the church.

(5) Not one student could give a verse for each of the five steps.

(6) Two (2) students did not know when the church was established.

(7) No one could correctly tell me the number of books in the New Testament.

(8) A question was asked, "Who other than Christ would have to be the greatest Biblical character?" No one said Paul.

Brethren, these may not be the results you would find in your congregation, but don't assume that it is the exception rather than the rule. We need to periodically test the memories of our young. They will be taking our place some day, and the hope of the church will be in their hands. What chance do they have with "spiritual meat" when "spiritual milk" is needed? May God help us realize our responsibilities as teachers.

Truth Magazine, XVIII:18, p. 2
March 7, 1974