I wish I could say that most Sunday School classes start on time. But starting late is a common trait in many classes whether they have 45 minutes or an hour. What does being late communicate to members and guests? What is missed when classes don’t start on time?
Previously, I shared eleven benefits of starting on time in Benefits of Starting Sunday School on Time. In this two part series, I will expand on that list of the benefits of starting Sunday School on time:
-
Communicates honesty. How honest is a published start time of 10:00 when the class never shows up or starts until 10:15? Enlist leaders with this expectation. Address this issue in training. Hold teachers accountable to start on time.
-
Full, life-changing lesson. Starting on time allows teacher to prepare for and present a full, life-changing lesson. More time to teach allows more time for disciple-making. More class time gives more time for more questions and class involvement in the lesson.
-
Multiple teaching methods. Starting on time, gives the teacher opportunity to utilize multiple teaching methods to intersect with learning styles (rather than only lecture). Connecting with learning styles means learning retention and application will increase and often learning satisfaction.
-
Sunday School records. Starting on time allows for gathering Sunday School records at a consistent time from all classes. It enables checking on the rare late records. It enables class and Sunday School secretaries to complete their work more quickly.
-
Class business. Starting on time allows the class not to rush through or skip care and outreach assignments, class and church announcements, and prayer time. Assignments, communication, and prayer are vital for a healthy class. Without starting on time, this business cuts into teaching time, is cut short, or is neglected.
-
Fellowship time. Starting on time provides intentional and spontaneous fellowship time. When more people are present on time, more people are able to connect before class. And more time together in class enables more connections during class business and the lesson.
Do everything in your power to start on time. God and His people deserve our best. Make the most of every moment you have together. Change lives. Make disciples. Be revolutionary!
Those who are not on time did not plan to be on time. They are the ones who are always late
Being late disrupts the teaching time and the learning by disrupting others who are there to learn.
If you do not start on time people will begin to come in later and later as time goes by and others will drop out because of the disturbance of those coming in late.
Bill Hall
Bill, I agree. Some have developed the habit of lateness for everything they do–including work. But others have developed the habit because no one has helped them understand the benefits and consequences of their actions on themselves and others.