In nature, premastication is the process whereby certain adult creatures chew up, break down, and regurgitate food into the mouths of their waiting babies. You’ve probably seen birds do it. It’s usually the first image we think of. However, anthropologists have determined that there are human cultures in which this practice is common. All I can say is, “Thank goodness for Gerber.”

Premastication is a way to break food into digestable, usable pieces for less physically mature members of a species. Premastication is also a method that teachers use to break down the Bible and regurgitate facts and information to their less spiritually mature group members. Yuck! Our group members don’t need (or want) a “second sermon.”

While premastication is the way some species continue to grow and thrive, it’s not a great way to teach the Bible. Yet every week in churches of all sizes and types, well-meaning and well-prepared group leaders stand in front of their people and regurgitate Bible facts and factoids, majoring on minutia sometimes. Group members are subjected to a mostly one-sided, teacher-centric learning experience. Premastication might be great for birds, but it’s not a good plan for Bible study!

Let’s face it—while lectures have their place, sometimes your Bible study group needs a little extra zing to stay engaged. If your group has ever looked more like a nap circle than a learning circle, it might be time to shake things up.

Here are six creative, interactive, and joy-filled ways to help your group dive deeper into Scripture—without anyone dozing off. I didn’t mention Q&A because you’re probably already using that one regularly. How about these?

1.  Bible Charades (Yes, Really)

Split into teams and act out Bible stories or characters without speaking. Watching someone try to mime “Jonah in the belly of a whale” is not only hilarious—it’s surprisingly memorable. Bonus points for dramatic flair and fishy sound effects.

2. Scripture Scramble

Print out key verses, cut them into phrases or words, and have teams race to put them back in order. It’s like a holy jigsaw puzzle, and it gets everyone thinking about the structure and meaning of the verse.

3. Creative Corners

Set up stations with art supplies, journaling prompts, or even LEGO bricks. Ask members to express a passage through drawing, poetry, or building. You’ll be amazed at the insights that come from a glue stick and a little imagination.

4. Hot Seat Q&A

Pick a character from the Bible and have someone sit in the “hot seat” to answer questions as that person. The rest of the group interviews them. It’s a fun way to explore motivations, emotions, and context—plus, it’s a great excuse to wear a bathrobe and call it a costume.

5. Bible Trivia Showdown

Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Create a quiz show with categories like “Obscure Old Testament Laws” or “Jesus Said What?” Prizes optional, bragging rights guaranteed.

6.  Walk Through the Word

Take your study outside! Go on a prayer walk, or assign different Scripture readings at various “stations” around a park or church building. Movement helps memory—and it’s a great way to engage kinesthetic learners.

Final Thought

The goal isn’t just to teach—it’s to transform. When people laugh, move, create, and connect, they remember. So go ahead—ditch the podium now and then. Your group might just thank you with more smiles, deeper insights, and fewer glazed-over stares.