5 Warning Signs You Should NOT Lead a Bible Study


At Hendrickson Rose, we’ve been busy writing a series of Bible studies based on our most popular titles and we asked ourselves, “How can we equip everyday folks (who are not teachers or pastors or scholars) to lead their small groups confidently?” So, we set out to writing a Bible study leader guide (which is included in each of the Rose Visual Bible Study books coming out in June!) We wanted to share some helpful tips, do’s and don’ts, popular myths, and characteristics of effective Bible study leaders. We thought we’d share some helpful advice with you as a sneak peek here:

5 BAD Reasons to Lead a Bible Study

Look, starting a Bible study isn’t for everyone. And that’s OK!

Just as seminary school or parenthood isn’t for everyone.

So before you go all in, read these 5 warning signs that starting a Bible study isn’t for you. (This’ll potentially spare you time and frustration.)

  1. You want to wow others with your biblical knowledge.
    “Love . . . does not boast, it is not proud” (1 Corinthians 13:4).
  2. You’re seeking a hidden personal gain or profit.
    “We do not peddle the word of God for profit” (2 Corinthians 2:17).
  3. You want to tell people how wrong they are.
    “Do not condemn” (Romans 2:1).
  4. You want to fix or rescue people.
    “It is God who works in you to will and to act” (Philippians 2:13).
  5. You’re being pressured to do it.
    “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?” (Galatians 1:10).

Keep scrolling for more…

This excerpt is from the “Rose Visual Bible Study Leader Guide,” included in each of the Rose Visual Bible Study Series books.

How to know you ARE ready to start a Bible study

If any of those 5 reasons sound like you, it’s okay. You don’t need to start a Bible study—especially if someone told you that you should. Find a way to serve that you’re excited about instead!

On the other hand…

You’re ready to start your own Bible study if:

  • You trust God to work powerfully and are open to the Spirit’s promptings
  • You are ready to prepare for group gatherings and keep showing up faithfully
  • You’re willing to invite, remind, encourage, and love
  • You want to facilitate discussion, ask questions, and then listen attentively
  • You can gently speak tough truths
  • You’re willing to call and text and let your group members know that you’ve got their back
  • You will celebrate with those who are happy, and weep with those who are sad

God can use even his most unqualified to do incredible works, so you don’t even need to feel confident. Just called. As long as your desire is that Jesus be Lord of your life, God will use you!

So if this feels like you? Start small. And before you spend hours and lots of money into planning, supplies, materials, and preparations… prayerfully bring this to God.

Your Bible study can be the foundation of a new beautiful thing in your community, fostering connections, growth, and deeper connections with God. Don’t rush it.

About The Rose Visual Bible Studies Series

Rose Visual Study Guides are packed with full-color visuals that show key information at a glance! These six-week, inductive studies on the Armor of God, Book of James, The Tabernacle, The Life of Paul, and other key Bible topics dig deep into Scripture. This series’ practical read it, know it, explore it, and live it format makes it perfect for individual or group use. The Rose Visual Bible Studies Series also includes:

5 Key Features of the Rose Visual Bible Studies

  1. Packed with Visuals & Graphics. Unlike other studies, which are mostly text, Rose’s full-color Visual Bible Studies are packed with full-color illustrations, maps, timelines, charts, and give you all the key themes and important information at a glance!

  2. Clear and Easy to Understand. It’s never been easier to dig deeper and get a solid overview of how each key topic points to Christ. Whether you’re a solid saint or a new believer, these Bible studies will have you diving into new and fascinating insights.

  3. Practical Life Applications. Start this life-changing Bible study today and discover the promises and blessings the Lord has for your in His Word.
  4. Flexible & Easy-to-Use Format. Whether you want a a 30-, 60-, or 90-minute study (3 plans included), this book is designed to help you dive into Scripture and retain information, the format of the Rose Visual Bible Study Series helps you focus on key takeaways, applications, and important lessons.
  5. Anyone Can Lead This. Each Bible study contains a leader guide to help anyone guide their small group or church through discussions and important lessons. No additional purchase necessary! Packed with the Do’s and Don’ts of leadership, group guidelines, 3 Bible study plans for flexibility, and more, this simple leader guide will get you and your group up and running in no time!

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