It is little use to talk about church growth without emphasizing Bible study.  The apostle Peter writes, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby” (1 Pet. 2:2, KJV).  The word of God is a Christian’s nourishment (Mt. 4:4).  Without it, his soul becomes weak and emaciated, and if the spiritual fast is not eventually broken, he will die.

This is why it is important for churches to have a sound Bible school program.  Bible class is the best place for Christians of all ages to receive the nourishment they desperately need.  This is where they put down roots, where they develop deep convictions that will keep them from falling away in tough times.  Elders who invest in a vigorous Bible school program are wise.  They know it is vital to the strength and stability of their congregations.  Ira North was fond of repeating the saying, “As goes the Sunday school, so goes the congregation.”

A new quarter begins this Wednesday night.  Will your family make a commitment to participate?  Evidently, some brethren do not believe Bible classes are very important.  Every congregation reports a discrepancy in their worship and Bible class attendance records.

There are three possible reasons for this apathy: 1) The church is failing to produce a quality educational program; 2) the Christians who choose not to come do not understand the importance of these classes; or 3) these Christians know it’s important, but they are too distracted by worldly concerns to care.  Let’s rule out option three, since those individuals probably do not take the time to read bulletin articles.  That leaves only two other possibilities, and both of them have to do with a lack of understanding.  For our part, the Ashville Road Church of Christ has been working hard with education director Tim Layton to grow our Bible school into a first rate program.  That leaves you, the member.  Will you do your part to promote the spiritual growth of this congregation?  Why not start this Wednesday?