Small Group Toolbox: Handling Questions

Summary: This response gives time to find a scripture passage or story where the answer can be discovered in a bible study.

In the “Toolbox” series of blog posts, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about leading Small Groups. If you have questions you’d like answered, drop us a message!

What if someone asks me a question that is not about the passage we are studying?

Although questions are valued, time is also valuable for those in the Bible study. We can say, “That’s a great question and I’m glad you asked it. Lets look at it together next week, so that we have more time with it. I think we would all like to know that answer.” 

This response gives time to find a scripture passage or story where the answer can be discovered in a bible study. If we cannot find the right passage or scripture story, we can ask other followers of Jesus who are farther along in the journey to help us find a passage.

In this way we communicate to our small group that they don’t have to be an expert to lead a small group. We are modeling leadership that does not give answers, but direction — helping others discover the answers through the Holy Spirit.

When questions arise, think discovery, not answers.