Use of Bible in Christian Education
1. Types of Literature in the Bible
The Bible is a rich compilation of various literary genres, each contributing to the
overall message and teachings of Christianity
Historical Narratives
o Accounts of historical events and figures
o E.g.
Genesis, Exodus, and Acts.
The story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 14).
Law
o Legal codes and commandments
o E.g.
Leviticus and Deuteronomy
The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20).
Poetry and Wisdom Literature
o Poems, songs, and wise sayings
o E.g.
Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing (Psalm 23:1).
Prophecy
o Messages from God delivered by prophets
o E.g.
Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Revelation.
The prophecy of the coming Messiah (Isaiah 53).
Gospels
o Accounts of Jesus' life and teachings
o E.g.
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
Epistles
o Letters written by apostles to early Christian communities
o E.g.
Romans, Corinthians, and Ephesians.
Paul's teachings on love (1 Corinthians 13).
Apocalyptic Literature
o Visions and symbolic revelations about the end times
o E.g.
Daniel and Revelation.
The vision of the New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation 21).
2. Designing Curriculum Appropriate to Developmental Stages
When designing a Christian education curriculum, it's important to consider the
different stages of cognitive, moral, faith, and emotional development
Early Childhood (Ages 3-6)
o Cognitive
Use simple, concrete concepts and stories.
E.g.: The story of Noah's Ark (Genesis 6-9).
o Moral
Introduce basic ideas of right and wrong through Bible stories.
E.g.: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).
o Faith
Focus on God's love and care.
E.g.: Let the little children come to me (Matthew 19:14).
o Emotional
Create a warm, secure learning environment.
Middle Childhood (Ages 7-11)
o Cognitive
Engage in interactive storytelling and simple problem-solving.
E.g. The story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17).
o Moral
Encourage understanding of moral lessons and consequences.
E.g. The story of Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37-50).
o Faith
Foster a personal relationship with God through prayer and worship.
E.g. Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
o Emotional
Promote a sense of belonging and community.
Adolescence (Ages 12-18)
o Cognitive
Challenge with deeper questions and critical thinking.
E.g. Discussing the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).
o Moral
Discuss ethical dilemmas and moral reasoning.
E.g. Jesus' teachings on love and forgiveness (Matthew 5:43-48).
o Faith
Encourage personal faith exploration and commitment.
E.g. For I know the plans I have for you - declares the Lord (Jeremiah
29:11).
o Emotional
Support identity formation and self-worth.
Adulthood:
o Cognitive
Engage in in-depth Bible study and theological reflection.
E.g. Studying the Pauline Epistles.
o Moral
Discuss complex moral issues and ethical decision-making.
E.g. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
o Faith
Deepen spiritual practices and community involvement.
E.g. Love your neighbour as yourself (Matthew 22:39).
o Emotional
Foster resilience and emotional maturity.
3. Methods of Teaching Appropriate to Developmental Stages
Selecting appropriate teaching methods for each developmental stage enhances
learning and spiritual growth
Early Childhood
o Use visual aids, songs, and hands-on activities.
E.g. Illustrating the story of Creation (Genesis 1-2) with drawings.
o Keep lessons short and engaging.
o Focus on repetition and memorization of simple Bible verses
E.g. God is love (1 John 4:8).
Middle Childhood:
o Incorporate storytelling, role-playing, and crafts. Example: Acting out the
story of Daniel in the lion's den (Daniel 6).
o Encourage participation and group discussions.
o Use age-appropriate Bibles and resources.
Adolescence:
o Facilitate group discussions, debates, and service projects. Example:
Discussing the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) and their application today.
o Encourage independent Bible study and journaling.
o Address contemporary issues and how they relate to faith. Example: Exploring
themes of justice and mercy in the book of Micah.
Adulthood:
o Offer Bible study groups, seminars, and workshops. Example: Studying the
book of Romans and its implications for Christian living.
o Promote open dialogue and critical analysis of biblical texts.
o Support practical application of biblical principles in daily life. Example:
Implementing the teachings of James on faith and works (James 2:14-26).
