While reading through the biblical text of the lesson, observe what is happening or what is being taught. Observation is merely asking yourself the age-old questions of: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How. Who is speaking? Who is being spoken to? What are they saying? Where is the action taking place? Does the action take place in a palace, a home, a wilderness, a city? When did the action take place? Did it happen during a certain season, a festive celebration, a time of war? Look for why the action took place and how it happened. These aspects of the text require reading through the scriptural passage multiple times, but it will be well worth the effort to familiarize yourself with it. The more the passage is ingrained into your thinking, the easier it is to present. Your observations become the foundation of your presentation.

Next, look for what the passage means. The Bible was written for our understanding, and so our task is to understand its intended meaning. We must pay attention to the details as we develop our theme at this point. The theme must fit within the Bible's broader teaching of the subject. Scripture confirms Scripture, and that is why other passages lend support to help us clarify the meaning of the text. Use clear biblical passages to interpret those which are less precise. This also helps to avoid misappropriating Scripture by taking it out of its context.

At this point within lesson preparation, you should be able to create a thematic sentence based on the biblical text. This is the key point and is the big idea. It states what the scriptural author is talking about, and what he is saying about what he is talking about (Robinson, 43). ^[1]

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[1] Robinson, Haddon W. Biblical Preaching. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2001.

Now that we have the big idea, next we must apply the big deal. What does the point of the passage have to do with us? This is where the characters or principles are applied to us as we live in today's world. There may be centuries separating us from the days of the biblical writings, but people have never changed. We all feel love, joy, grief, sorrow, pain, disappointment, and more, in the same way as the Bible characters did. This is why biblical principles, which were taught then, are still relevant today because we all share the same emotions and experiences. Here is where the lesson becomes personal and must provoke a change within the listener. God's word is meant to transform us by the renewing of our mind (Romans 12:2). As we hear His message, it should lead us to the goal of personal holiness. This is the Christ-like change that God desires for us. It is important to be specific about what needs to be changed so there is no misunderstanding. If it is a call to be compassionate toward the poor, then give specific suggestions. If it is a call to renew broken relationships, then give precise examples. If it is a call to support missions, then present the needs of missionaries which the church supports. This is God's personal call to take action, and His personal message to us.

As children mature their attention span grows. They also have a desire for creative learning environments, and diverse activities need to be employed to keep them engaged. During these years, Scripture memorization can be optimized through sign language and songs. Children need to be encouraged to make good choices, and learn to help others through simple activities.

Teens need to be prepared for adolescence where, again, good choices are reinforced. They also need healthy outlets in which to spend their energy. These activities can be the platform to include biblical training where valuable principles in sportsmanship, teamwork, and citizenship are conveyed. During this time in their lives they may begin to have questions and doubts. Their thoughts and actions must be corralled into concrete biblical principles where they develop personal godliness.

As adults, our lives become congested with careers, marriage, childcare, household duties, and sometimes senior care. Attention to these issues is critical. Peer support must be included in the lesson preparation, and be sensitive to the specific needs of the audience. Each person has had a lifetime of unique experiences and may be able to contribute godly insight to a particular subject. Class discussions should be encouraged and valued, and yet, remain focused on the key point. As individuals mature in their faith, each should be encouraged to mentor younger students. Older men and women are instructed to live self-restrained lives that show dignity, faith, love, and kindness so God's word will not be dishonored (Titus 2:2-4). The wisdom of the older generation is a vast reservoir which can be channeled into the lives of young believers. There is no retiring from passing godly insights onto the next generation.