Which of the 3 C’s of Class Care Is Missing?

I was reflecting on a previous post, 3 Actions in a Healthy Marriage Are Important for a Sunday School Class. That led me to identify 3 critical components of Sunday School class care: communication, concern, and commitment. Allow me to explain and illustrate those components.

Class Care Components

• Communication. Two-way communication is essential, especially listening. Every person in a class deserves care that involves listening, even absentees. If a person is missing, contact is needed for opportunity to communicate. Seek involvement by every person in every lesson. Listen (and when possible) affirm what they say. Illustration: Share about upcoming class plans and events. But also listen for needs and prayer requests.
• Concern. This is the relational attachment behind communication. Concern is using words AND action to express care. This is agape love, or unconditional love. It is care without any expectation in return. Concern is expression of care designed to meet needs or bring joy. Illustration: Pray together when a need is discovered. Mobilize help and ministry to meet needs. Plan to give resources and attention.
• Commitment. Without commitment, care becomes neglected and relationships weaken. Commitment is determination and persistence. It is intentional care over a long period of time. Commitment is not growing weary in well-doing, but communicating and expressing concern in every opportunity. Illustration: Develop a plan for care. Evaluate the plan regularly. Notice and mobilize contact and care when people are absent.

Evaluate Your 3 C’s

Some marriages do well on one of the C’s but come up short on the others. Classes have similar struggles. On which of the three C’s does your class need to renew focus and energy? I suggest working on one at a time. Develop a plan. Make assignments. And don’t give up because all three are essential. Care. Make disciples. Be revolutionary!