When obligations, invitations, and distractions squeeze our days, we may need to say \u201cNo\u201d to prospects when they prevent the \u201cYeses\u201d that enrich our relationship with God. I decline most evening opportunities and limit social media and Netflix binges to ensure my bedtime supports the slumber number I need for fruitful mornings with God. What will you do to cultivate and protect time for God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protect margin.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nOur December calendar is a doozy. The coming month brings two kids\u2019 birthdays, one kid\u2019s college graduation, the holidays, and our youngest daughter\u2019s wedding on January 5. When the Lord directed me to time-block the month exclusively for family, work, and life-group activities, I did. Now, I\u2019ll have to protect these sacred spaces with my life. How can you create and protect margin in the days and weeks ahead?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Delay elective commitments.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nLast year, I hosted an annual retreat for a handful of friends between Christmas and New Year\u2019s Eve. While not my preference, I prayerfully delayed this year\u2019s gathering to February so preparations don\u2019t distract from time with God and loved ones in December. Is there anything you need to postpone until after the holidays?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Peace.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As Jesus prepared his disciples for his departure, he said, \u201cPeace I leave with you; my peace I give to you\u201d (John 14:27a, ESV). This is another gift we can give others. For me, this naturally flows from time in God\u2019s presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trust God.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThis season can be wrought with anxiety and fear. Past experiences may tempt us to dread holiday gatherings, and family time often opens doors to family conflict. Maybe you\u2019ve been deeply hurt by someone you\u2019ll have to see, and their behavior is still hurtful. It\u2019s hard, but God. Regardless of the challenging possibilities, we can trust what God says: “He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on him because we trust him” (Isaiah 26:3, paraphrased). How can you fix your heart and mind on God and experience his perfect peace this holiday season?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Modify desires.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nExpectation breeds frustration. My desire to create Christmas morning magic for my kids and grandkids often propagates self-imposed pressure. Visions of perfect moments, meals, and reveals dance in my head, but my heart wanders from God to cracked, leaking cisterns devoid of what I truly need to be a blessing to my family (Jeremiah 2:13). What expectations can you exchange for satisfaction from God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guard gates.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nEyes and ears grant access to the heart\u2014the source of life (Proverbs 4:23)\u2014where desires and expectations dwell. What we see and hear influences our thoughts, expectations, perspectives, beliefs, doubts, opinions, stereotypes, etc. The gift of peace awaits diligent gate-keepers who refuse entrance to information and influence that defiles the heart. When I over-consume the world\u2019s entertainment and news, fear and self-preservation dominate my heart instead of faith and sacrificial love. When I read the Bible, God\u2019s truth informs my view of myself and others and influences my thoughts, desires, and choices. When I fill my ears with biblical teaching and instruction, my heart turns toward God and people, not away. What media do you need to limit to know and flow with God\u2019s peace?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When Bing Crosby promises his presence at Christmas, he anticipates snow, mistletoe, and presents under the tree. If I caroled at your front door, I would sing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
God is here for Christmas<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With peace for you and me<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please slow down and trust him now<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter what\u2019s under the tree<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMay the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all\u201d (2 Thessalonians 3:16, ESV).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the invaluable gifts of ‘Presence’ and ‘Peace’ can shape unforgettable memories for your family this season. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":1034,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I remember the first time I stood up to teach the Bible to a group of women in my local church. I was terrified. Yes, I studied the passage diligently and spent hours preparing pages of notes, but I wasn\u2019t sure if my preparation was effective. Is my teaching structured well? Will the women be interested or learn anything new? Have I interpreted this passage correctly?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nMany women who are asked to teach a Sunday School class, speak at a Bible study, or lead a small group experience similar fears. They often have little or no training specific to teaching Scripture and feel unequipped and insecure in their preparation. Even so, the abundance of resources available on the subject of teaching Scripture can be paralyzing for a new Bible teacher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why we need books like Empowered and Equipped: Bible Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures<\/em><\/a>. Julia Higgins, assistant professor of ministry to women at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, seeks to provide women with the tools they need to faithfully and effectively teach the Word of God to other women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/media.thegospelcoalition.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/12102846\/A1L74YuwgQL.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped: Biblical Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u201cJesus commissioned disciples to teach the nations, and women of the church must take his call seriously.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Men and women alike are given the spiritual gift of teaching, yet few resources are designed specifically for women who exposit the Scriptures. In Empowered and Equipped<\/em>, Julia Higgins steers women through the steps needed to faithfully interpret, apply, and teach a passage of Scripture. By examining both the principles and practices of teaching of Bible exposition, Higgins seeks to prepare women in the local church to make and mold disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\nB&H Academic. 224 pp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Should Women Teach the Bible?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
First we must ask, Is a book that encourages and equips women to teach Scripture necessary or even appropriate? There\u2019s much discussion today about whether the Bible permits women to teach at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an effort to submit to Scripture\u2019s teaching, many have unfortunately moved beyond what God\u2019s Word prescribes to impose unbiblical restrictions on women. To argue that women shouldn\u2019t teach Scripture in any formal setting misunderstands God\u2019s design for discipleship. Higgins argues that all followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, as Higgins explains, \u201cSome may conflate the spiritual gift of teaching with the office of pastor\/elder and draw a false conclusion that only men are to exercise the gift of teaching. While qualified men are responsible to teach and oversee the local church, that does not negate the fact that both men and women are given the spiritual gift of teaching.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nAll followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Spiritual gifts, including the gift of teaching, are given for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7<\/a>) and for building up the church (1 Cor. 14:12<\/a>). It follows that women are not only permitted to teach in appropriate settings but are needed for the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. This pattern is exemplified in the women in Scripture who are called to teach and commended for their teaching ministries, many of which Higgins references.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn light of the biblical call for women to teach, Higgins writes,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The end of the matter is this: women should be given a context where they can teach the Word in the local church. Why? Because Christ\u2019s church will grow and others will be discipled in the faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Her book, therefore, provides \u201ca pathway for women to exercise teaching gifts in the local church,\u201d and specifically focuses on training women to teach women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Helpful Foundation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Higgins provides an accessible yet substantial foundation for teaching Scripture. She incorporates principles and strategies from some of the most highly respected Bible teachers of our day, giving readers a well-rounded introduction to teaching Scripture without information overload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Higgins has a high view of God\u2019s Word and a Christ-centered approach that highlights the overarching storyline of the Bible. Readers will gain essential tools for expository teaching, learning to base the central teaching focus, supporting points, and application on the main point and structure of the text itself. Higgins even encourages this kind of verse-by-verse teaching for topical messages, so that the teacher is always communicating the text\u2019s intended purpose rather than taking passages out of context as proof texts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Empowered and Equipped<\/em> walks teachers through the process of creating a Bible exposition, from understanding the nature of Scripture all the way to writing an expositional outline. Higgins covers a wide range of content from theoretical to practical, including information on biblical genres, basic doctrinal issues, and hermeneutics.<\/p>\n\n\n\nShe spends a large portion of the book giving instruction on studying the Bible inductively, including specific strategies for observation, interpretation, generalization, and application and for how that study translates into instruction. The scope of the book makes it suitable for beginners\u2014although they may want to work through it more slowly\u2014as well as for those who have been studying and teaching Scripture for some time but are looking for a process to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While Empowered and Equipped<\/em> covers an impressive amount of ground in a surprisingly manageable page count, readers may leave with unanswered questions. For example, the book includes almost no discussion of incorporating meaningful illustrations or transitions. On other topics, such as the discussion of genre or the overview of theological doctrines, Higgins gives only brief introductions. Anything more, however, would make the book overwhelmingly dense, and readers can continue to explore these topics in more depth as they see fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped to Teach God\u2019s Word<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u201cfemale-friendly\u201d topics stereotypical of women\u2019s conferences or retreats but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nThe church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u2018female-friendly\u2019 topics but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Higgins appeals, \u201cThis call for women to be teachers of the Word arises from a place of care and concern for over half of the body, so that the church might grow in love for God and his Word, passing it along to others, so that they too might go and make disciples of all nations to the end that Christ\u2019s commands are observed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As this book makes its way into the hands of more and more women who treasure the Bible and long to see it elevated and proclaimed, I pray the church will be edified and God\u2019s glory made known. I pray the teachers it equips will grow in their love for Christ even as the women they teach develop new excitement for God\u2019s Word. I pray that instead of feeling insecure and unprepared, women will be empowered and equipped to teach the Scriptures.<\/p>\n","_et_gb_content_width":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting","et-has-post-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n
Two Fail-Safe Gifts They\u2019ll Always Remember<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the gifts of 'Presence' and 'Peace' shape unforgettable memories for your family.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/2023\/12\/04\/two-fail-safe-gifts-theyll-always-remember\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Two Fail-Safe Gifts They\u2019ll Always Remember\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the gifts of 'Presence' and 'Peace' shape unforgettable memories for your family.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" 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Last year, I hosted an annual retreat for a handful of friends between Christmas and New Year\u2019s Eve. While not my preference, I prayerfully delayed this year\u2019s gathering to February so preparations don\u2019t distract from time with God and loved ones in December. Is there anything you need to postpone until after the holidays?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Peace.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As Jesus prepared his disciples for his departure, he said, \u201cPeace I leave with you; my peace I give to you\u201d (John 14:27a, ESV). This is another gift we can give others. For me, this naturally flows from time in God\u2019s presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trust God.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nThis season can be wrought with anxiety and fear. Past experiences may tempt us to dread holiday gatherings, and family time often opens doors to family conflict. Maybe you\u2019ve been deeply hurt by someone you\u2019ll have to see, and their behavior is still hurtful. It\u2019s hard, but God. Regardless of the challenging possibilities, we can trust what God says: “He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on him because we trust him” (Isaiah 26:3, paraphrased). How can you fix your heart and mind on God and experience his perfect peace this holiday season?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Modify desires.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nExpectation breeds frustration. My desire to create Christmas morning magic for my kids and grandkids often propagates self-imposed pressure. Visions of perfect moments, meals, and reveals dance in my head, but my heart wanders from God to cracked, leaking cisterns devoid of what I truly need to be a blessing to my family (Jeremiah 2:13). What expectations can you exchange for satisfaction from God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guard gates.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nEyes and ears grant access to the heart\u2014the source of life (Proverbs 4:23)\u2014where desires and expectations dwell. What we see and hear influences our thoughts, expectations, perspectives, beliefs, doubts, opinions, stereotypes, etc. The gift of peace awaits diligent gate-keepers who refuse entrance to information and influence that defiles the heart. When I over-consume the world\u2019s entertainment and news, fear and self-preservation dominate my heart instead of faith and sacrificial love. When I read the Bible, God\u2019s truth informs my view of myself and others and influences my thoughts, desires, and choices. When I fill my ears with biblical teaching and instruction, my heart turns toward God and people, not away. What media do you need to limit to know and flow with God\u2019s peace?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When Bing Crosby promises his presence at Christmas, he anticipates snow, mistletoe, and presents under the tree. If I caroled at your front door, I would sing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
God is here for Christmas<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With peace for you and me<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please slow down and trust him now<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter what\u2019s under the tree<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMay the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all\u201d (2 Thessalonians 3:16, ESV).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the invaluable gifts of ‘Presence’ and ‘Peace’ can shape unforgettable memories for your family this season. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":1034,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I remember the first time I stood up to teach the Bible to a group of women in my local church. I was terrified. Yes, I studied the passage diligently and spent hours preparing pages of notes, but I wasn\u2019t sure if my preparation was effective. Is my teaching structured well? Will the women be interested or learn anything new? Have I interpreted this passage correctly?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nMany women who are asked to teach a Sunday School class, speak at a Bible study, or lead a small group experience similar fears. They often have little or no training specific to teaching Scripture and feel unequipped and insecure in their preparation. Even so, the abundance of resources available on the subject of teaching Scripture can be paralyzing for a new Bible teacher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why we need books like Empowered and Equipped: Bible Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures<\/em><\/a>. Julia Higgins, assistant professor of ministry to women at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, seeks to provide women with the tools they need to faithfully and effectively teach the Word of God to other women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped: Biblical Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u201cJesus commissioned disciples to teach the nations, and women of the church must take his call seriously.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Men and women alike are given the spiritual gift of teaching, yet few resources are designed specifically for women who exposit the Scriptures. In Empowered and Equipped<\/em>, Julia Higgins steers women through the steps needed to faithfully interpret, apply, and teach a passage of Scripture. By examining both the principles and practices of teaching of Bible exposition, Higgins seeks to prepare women in the local church to make and mold disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\nB&H Academic. 224 pp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Should Women Teach the Bible?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
First we must ask, Is a book that encourages and equips women to teach Scripture necessary or even appropriate? There\u2019s much discussion today about whether the Bible permits women to teach at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an effort to submit to Scripture\u2019s teaching, many have unfortunately moved beyond what God\u2019s Word prescribes to impose unbiblical restrictions on women. To argue that women shouldn\u2019t teach Scripture in any formal setting misunderstands God\u2019s design for discipleship. Higgins argues that all followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, as Higgins explains, \u201cSome may conflate the spiritual gift of teaching with the office of pastor\/elder and draw a false conclusion that only men are to exercise the gift of teaching. While qualified men are responsible to teach and oversee the local church, that does not negate the fact that both men and women are given the spiritual gift of teaching.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nAll followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Spiritual gifts, including the gift of teaching, are given for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7<\/a>) and for building up the church (1 Cor. 14:12<\/a>). It follows that women are not only permitted to teach in appropriate settings but are needed for the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. This pattern is exemplified in the women in Scripture who are called to teach and commended for their teaching ministries, many of which Higgins references.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn light of the biblical call for women to teach, Higgins writes,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The end of the matter is this: women should be given a context where they can teach the Word in the local church. Why? Because Christ\u2019s church will grow and others will be discipled in the faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Her book, therefore, provides \u201ca pathway for women to exercise teaching gifts in the local church,\u201d and specifically focuses on training women to teach women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Helpful Foundation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Higgins provides an accessible yet substantial foundation for teaching Scripture. She incorporates principles and strategies from some of the most highly respected Bible teachers of our day, giving readers a well-rounded introduction to teaching Scripture without information overload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Higgins has a high view of God\u2019s Word and a Christ-centered approach that highlights the overarching storyline of the Bible. Readers will gain essential tools for expository teaching, learning to base the central teaching focus, supporting points, and application on the main point and structure of the text itself. Higgins even encourages this kind of verse-by-verse teaching for topical messages, so that the teacher is always communicating the text\u2019s intended purpose rather than taking passages out of context as proof texts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Empowered and Equipped<\/em> walks teachers through the process of creating a Bible exposition, from understanding the nature of Scripture all the way to writing an expositional outline. Higgins covers a wide range of content from theoretical to practical, including information on biblical genres, basic doctrinal issues, and hermeneutics.<\/p>\n\n\n\nShe spends a large portion of the book giving instruction on studying the Bible inductively, including specific strategies for observation, interpretation, generalization, and application and for how that study translates into instruction. The scope of the book makes it suitable for beginners\u2014although they may want to work through it more slowly\u2014as well as for those who have been studying and teaching Scripture for some time but are looking for a process to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While Empowered and Equipped<\/em> covers an impressive amount of ground in a surprisingly manageable page count, readers may leave with unanswered questions. For example, the book includes almost no discussion of incorporating meaningful illustrations or transitions. On other topics, such as the discussion of genre or the overview of theological doctrines, Higgins gives only brief introductions. Anything more, however, would make the book overwhelmingly dense, and readers can continue to explore these topics in more depth as they see fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped to Teach God\u2019s Word<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u201cfemale-friendly\u201d topics stereotypical of women\u2019s conferences or retreats but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nThe church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u2018female-friendly\u2019 topics but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Higgins appeals, \u201cThis call for women to be teachers of the Word arises from a place of care and concern for over half of the body, so that the church might grow in love for God and his Word, passing it along to others, so that they too might go and make disciples of all nations to the end that Christ\u2019s commands are observed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As this book makes its way into the hands of more and more women who treasure the Bible and long to see it elevated and proclaimed, I pray the church will be edified and God\u2019s glory made known. I pray the teachers it equips will grow in their love for Christ even as the women they teach develop new excitement for God\u2019s Word. I pray that instead of feeling insecure and unprepared, women will be empowered and equipped to teach the Scriptures.<\/p>\n","_et_gb_content_width":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting","et-has-post-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n
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Expectation breeds frustration. My desire to create Christmas morning magic for my kids and grandkids often propagates self-imposed pressure. Visions of perfect moments, meals, and reveals dance in my head, but my heart wanders from God to cracked, leaking cisterns devoid of what I truly need to be a blessing to my family (Jeremiah 2:13). What expectations can you exchange for satisfaction from God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guard gates.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\nEyes and ears grant access to the heart\u2014the source of life (Proverbs 4:23)\u2014where desires and expectations dwell. What we see and hear influences our thoughts, expectations, perspectives, beliefs, doubts, opinions, stereotypes, etc. The gift of peace awaits diligent gate-keepers who refuse entrance to information and influence that defiles the heart. When I over-consume the world\u2019s entertainment and news, fear and self-preservation dominate my heart instead of faith and sacrificial love. When I read the Bible, God\u2019s truth informs my view of myself and others and influences my thoughts, desires, and choices. When I fill my ears with biblical teaching and instruction, my heart turns toward God and people, not away. What media do you need to limit to know and flow with God\u2019s peace?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When Bing Crosby promises his presence at Christmas, he anticipates snow, mistletoe, and presents under the tree. If I caroled at your front door, I would sing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
God is here for Christmas<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With peace for you and me<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please slow down and trust him now<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter what\u2019s under the tree<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMay the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all\u201d (2 Thessalonians 3:16, ESV).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the invaluable gifts of ‘Presence’ and ‘Peace’ can shape unforgettable memories for your family this season. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":1034,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I remember the first time I stood up to teach the Bible to a group of women in my local church. I was terrified. Yes, I studied the passage diligently and spent hours preparing pages of notes, but I wasn\u2019t sure if my preparation was effective. Is my teaching structured well? Will the women be interested or learn anything new? Have I interpreted this passage correctly?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nMany women who are asked to teach a Sunday School class, speak at a Bible study, or lead a small group experience similar fears. They often have little or no training specific to teaching Scripture and feel unequipped and insecure in their preparation. Even so, the abundance of resources available on the subject of teaching Scripture can be paralyzing for a new Bible teacher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why we need books like Empowered and Equipped: Bible Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures<\/em><\/a>. Julia Higgins, assistant professor of ministry to women at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, seeks to provide women with the tools they need to faithfully and effectively teach the Word of God to other women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped: Biblical Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u201cJesus commissioned disciples to teach the nations, and women of the church must take his call seriously.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Men and women alike are given the spiritual gift of teaching, yet few resources are designed specifically for women who exposit the Scriptures. In Empowered and Equipped<\/em>, Julia Higgins steers women through the steps needed to faithfully interpret, apply, and teach a passage of Scripture. By examining both the principles and practices of teaching of Bible exposition, Higgins seeks to prepare women in the local church to make and mold disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\nB&H Academic. 224 pp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Should Women Teach the Bible?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
First we must ask, Is a book that encourages and equips women to teach Scripture necessary or even appropriate? There\u2019s much discussion today about whether the Bible permits women to teach at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an effort to submit to Scripture\u2019s teaching, many have unfortunately moved beyond what God\u2019s Word prescribes to impose unbiblical restrictions on women. To argue that women shouldn\u2019t teach Scripture in any formal setting misunderstands God\u2019s design for discipleship. Higgins argues that all followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, as Higgins explains, \u201cSome may conflate the spiritual gift of teaching with the office of pastor\/elder and draw a false conclusion that only men are to exercise the gift of teaching. While qualified men are responsible to teach and oversee the local church, that does not negate the fact that both men and women are given the spiritual gift of teaching.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nAll followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Spiritual gifts, including the gift of teaching, are given for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7<\/a>) and for building up the church (1 Cor. 14:12<\/a>). It follows that women are not only permitted to teach in appropriate settings but are needed for the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. This pattern is exemplified in the women in Scripture who are called to teach and commended for their teaching ministries, many of which Higgins references.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn light of the biblical call for women to teach, Higgins writes,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The end of the matter is this: women should be given a context where they can teach the Word in the local church. Why? Because Christ\u2019s church will grow and others will be discipled in the faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Her book, therefore, provides \u201ca pathway for women to exercise teaching gifts in the local church,\u201d and specifically focuses on training women to teach women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Helpful Foundation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Higgins provides an accessible yet substantial foundation for teaching Scripture. She incorporates principles and strategies from some of the most highly respected Bible teachers of our day, giving readers a well-rounded introduction to teaching Scripture without information overload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Higgins has a high view of God\u2019s Word and a Christ-centered approach that highlights the overarching storyline of the Bible. Readers will gain essential tools for expository teaching, learning to base the central teaching focus, supporting points, and application on the main point and structure of the text itself. Higgins even encourages this kind of verse-by-verse teaching for topical messages, so that the teacher is always communicating the text\u2019s intended purpose rather than taking passages out of context as proof texts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Empowered and Equipped<\/em> walks teachers through the process of creating a Bible exposition, from understanding the nature of Scripture all the way to writing an expositional outline. Higgins covers a wide range of content from theoretical to practical, including information on biblical genres, basic doctrinal issues, and hermeneutics.<\/p>\n\n\n\nShe spends a large portion of the book giving instruction on studying the Bible inductively, including specific strategies for observation, interpretation, generalization, and application and for how that study translates into instruction. The scope of the book makes it suitable for beginners\u2014although they may want to work through it more slowly\u2014as well as for those who have been studying and teaching Scripture for some time but are looking for a process to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While Empowered and Equipped<\/em> covers an impressive amount of ground in a surprisingly manageable page count, readers may leave with unanswered questions. For example, the book includes almost no discussion of incorporating meaningful illustrations or transitions. On other topics, such as the discussion of genre or the overview of theological doctrines, Higgins gives only brief introductions. Anything more, however, would make the book overwhelmingly dense, and readers can continue to explore these topics in more depth as they see fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped to Teach God\u2019s Word<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u201cfemale-friendly\u201d topics stereotypical of women\u2019s conferences or retreats but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nThe church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u2018female-friendly\u2019 topics but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Higgins appeals, \u201cThis call for women to be teachers of the Word arises from a place of care and concern for over half of the body, so that the church might grow in love for God and his Word, passing it along to others, so that they too might go and make disciples of all nations to the end that Christ\u2019s commands are observed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As this book makes its way into the hands of more and more women who treasure the Bible and long to see it elevated and proclaimed, I pray the church will be edified and God\u2019s glory made known. I pray the teachers it equips will grow in their love for Christ even as the women they teach develop new excitement for God\u2019s Word. I pray that instead of feeling insecure and unprepared, women will be empowered and equipped to teach the Scriptures.<\/p>\n","_et_gb_content_width":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting","et-has-post-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n
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homes.","sameAs":["https:\/\/shaunawallace.com","@shaunajwallace"],"url":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/author\/shauna-wallace\/"}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember.jpg","uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember.jpg",1920,1080,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-300x169.jpg",300,169,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-768x432.jpg",768,432,true],"large":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1024x576.jpg",1024,576,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1536x864.jpg",1536,864,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember.jpg",1920,1080,false],"et-builder-post-main-image":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-400x250.jpg",400,250,true],"et-builder-post-main-image-fullwidth":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1080x675.jpg",1080,675,true],"et-builder-portfolio-image":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-400x284.jpg",400,284,true],"et-builder-portfolio-image-single":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1080x608.jpg",1080,608,true],"et-builder-gallery-image-portrait":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-400x516.jpg",400,516,true],"extra-image-huge":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1280x768.jpg",1280,768,true],"extra-image-single-post":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-1280x640.jpg",1280,640,true],"extra-image-medium":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-627x376.jpg",627,376,true],"extra-image-small":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-440x264.jpg",440,264,true],"extra-image-square-medium":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-440x440.jpg",440,440,true],"extra-image-square-small":["https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Two-Fail-Safe-Gifts-Theyll-Always-Remember-150x150.jpg",150,150,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Shauna Wallace","author_link":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/author\/shauna-wallace\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Unwrap lessons from the ultimate gift-giver and explore how the invaluable gifts of 'Presence' and 'Peace' can shape unforgettable memories for your family this season.","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1032","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/18"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1032"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1032\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1043,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1032\/revisions\/1043"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1034"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1032"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1032"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.championforest.org\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1032"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Many women who are asked to teach a Sunday School class, speak at a Bible study, or lead a small group experience similar fears. They often have little or no training specific to teaching Scripture and feel unequipped and insecure in their preparation. Even so, the abundance of resources available on the subject of teaching Scripture can be paralyzing for a new Bible teacher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why we need books like Empowered and Equipped: Bible Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures<\/em><\/a>. Julia Higgins, assistant professor of ministry to women at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, seeks to provide women with the tools they need to faithfully and effectively teach the Word of God to other women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cJesus commissioned disciples to teach the nations, and women of the church must take his call seriously.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Men and women alike are given the spiritual gift of teaching, yet few resources are designed specifically for women who exposit the Scriptures. In Empowered and Equipped<\/em>, Julia Higgins steers women through the steps needed to faithfully interpret, apply, and teach a passage of Scripture. By examining both the principles and practices of teaching of Bible exposition, Higgins seeks to prepare women in the local church to make and mold disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n B&H Academic. 224 pp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n First we must ask, Is a book that encourages and equips women to teach Scripture necessary or even appropriate? There\u2019s much discussion today about whether the Bible permits women to teach at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In an effort to submit to Scripture\u2019s teaching, many have unfortunately moved beyond what God\u2019s Word prescribes to impose unbiblical restrictions on women. To argue that women shouldn\u2019t teach Scripture in any formal setting misunderstands God\u2019s design for discipleship. Higgins argues that all followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Furthermore, as Higgins explains, \u201cSome may conflate the spiritual gift of teaching with the office of pastor\/elder and draw a false conclusion that only men are to exercise the gift of teaching. While qualified men are responsible to teach and oversee the local church, that does not negate the fact that both men and women are given the spiritual gift of teaching.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n All followers of Christ, including women, are included in the Great Commission and its call to teach other disciples everything Christ commanded.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Spiritual gifts, including the gift of teaching, are given for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7<\/a>) and for building up the church (1 Cor. 14:12<\/a>). It follows that women are not only permitted to teach in appropriate settings but are needed for the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. This pattern is exemplified in the women in Scripture who are called to teach and commended for their teaching ministries, many of which Higgins references.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In light of the biblical call for women to teach, Higgins writes,<\/p>\n\n\n\n The end of the matter is this: women should be given a context where they can teach the Word in the local church. Why? Because Christ\u2019s church will grow and others will be discipled in the faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Her book, therefore, provides \u201ca pathway for women to exercise teaching gifts in the local church,\u201d and specifically focuses on training women to teach women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Higgins provides an accessible yet substantial foundation for teaching Scripture. She incorporates principles and strategies from some of the most highly respected Bible teachers of our day, giving readers a well-rounded introduction to teaching Scripture without information overload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Higgins has a high view of God\u2019s Word and a Christ-centered approach that highlights the overarching storyline of the Bible. Readers will gain essential tools for expository teaching, learning to base the central teaching focus, supporting points, and application on the main point and structure of the text itself. Higgins even encourages this kind of verse-by-verse teaching for topical messages, so that the teacher is always communicating the text\u2019s intended purpose rather than taking passages out of context as proof texts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Empowered and Equipped<\/em> walks teachers through the process of creating a Bible exposition, from understanding the nature of Scripture all the way to writing an expositional outline. Higgins covers a wide range of content from theoretical to practical, including information on biblical genres, basic doctrinal issues, and hermeneutics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n She spends a large portion of the book giving instruction on studying the Bible inductively, including specific strategies for observation, interpretation, generalization, and application and for how that study translates into instruction. The scope of the book makes it suitable for beginners\u2014although they may want to work through it more slowly\u2014as well as for those who have been studying and teaching Scripture for some time but are looking for a process to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Empowered and Equipped<\/em> covers an impressive amount of ground in a surprisingly manageable page count, readers may leave with unanswered questions. For example, the book includes almost no discussion of incorporating meaningful illustrations or transitions. On other topics, such as the discussion of genre or the overview of theological doctrines, Higgins gives only brief introductions. Anything more, however, would make the book overwhelmingly dense, and readers can continue to explore these topics in more depth as they see fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u201cfemale-friendly\u201d topics stereotypical of women\u2019s conferences or retreats but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The church needs gifted women who not only speak on a short list of \u2018female-friendly\u2019 topics but who teach the whole counsel of God for the good of the body.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Higgins appeals, \u201cThis call for women to be teachers of the Word arises from a place of care and concern for over half of the body, so that the church might grow in love for God and his Word, passing it along to others, so that they too might go and make disciples of all nations to the end that Christ\u2019s commands are observed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n As this book makes its way into the hands of more and more women who treasure the Bible and long to see it elevated and proclaimed, I pray the church will be edified and God\u2019s glory made known. I pray the teachers it equips will grow in their love for Christ even as the women they teach develop new excitement for God\u2019s Word. I pray that instead of feeling insecure and unprepared, women will be empowered and equipped to teach the Scriptures.<\/p>\n","_et_gb_content_width":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting","et-has-post-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nEmpowered and Equipped: Biblical Exposition for Women Who Teach the Scriptures <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Should Women Teach the Bible?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Helpful Foundation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Empowered and Equipped to Teach God\u2019s Word<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n