Let’s be honest—leading a Bible study is a great calling, but it can also feel like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. Between work, family, and trying to remember where you left your coffee (again), finding time to prepare can be a challenge. Most of us are living time-compressed lives, and we need all the help we can get to streamline our lives, including our preparation to lead a group.

Whether you’re a seasoned shepherd or just stepping into the role, here are three practical tips to help you prep smarter—not harder—for your next Bible study.

1. Don’t Just Read—Pre-Read with Purpose

We all know the drill: open the Bible, read the passage, and hope inspiration strikes like lightning. But here’s a better way—pre-read with purpose.

Before you dive into commentaries or study guides, read the passage like you’re reading a letter from a friend. Ask yourself:

• What stands out?
• What words or phrases are hard to understand? Are any repeated in the passage?
• What is the writer’s main point?
• What would I ask God if He were sitting across from me?

Jot down your gut reactions. These raw thoughts are gold because they’re likely the same questions your group will have. And bonus: it makes your prep feel more like a conversation than a cram session.

2. Prep in Chunks, Not Marathons

Trying to prep everything in one sitting is like trying to eat a whole pizza in one bite. (Tempting, but not wise.)

Instead, break your prep into bite-sized chunks:

• Day 1: Read and reflect. What is God saying to you through His Word?
• Day 2: Research and gather insights. Take out study tools like commentaries, a Bible atlas, and a Bible dictionary for starters. Use your curriculum’s teacher resources as you dive into the biblical text.
• Day 3: Outline your discussion points and questions. If you’re using a publisher’s curriculum, they’ve done that for you. I never fully follow a teaching plan “as is,” but instead I like to massage the direction of the study and the discussion questions I’ll ask based on my group (let’s face it – no one knows my group better than me). That’s true of yours, too!
• Day 4: Gather any resources you’ll need during the group Bible study. Sometimes we want to play a song, show a photo image, read a quote, or assign certain parts of the Bible study to group members. If we wait until the day before we’re going to teach, we often forget to do these things, then our default is to skip them, and we’re right back to square one (no creativity and no real engagement of group members).
• Day 5: Review your study plan – no more studying at this point! “Saturday night specials” kill groups, so don’t be “that guy.” The day prior to the one you teach, you should only be in review mode. If you’re still studying and prepping, something has gone askew.

This approach keeps things fresh and gives your brain time to marinate on the material. Plus, it’s way less stressful than panic-prepping the night before while your dog gives you judgmental looks.

3. Crowdsource the Wisdom

You don’t have to be a Bible scholar to lead a great study—you just need to be a good guide. And good guides know when to ask for directions.

Lean on your group! Ask them to read ahead and come with one question or insight. Not only does this lighten your prep load, but it also gets everyone more engaged. Win-win!

Also, don’t be afraid to borrow brilliance. Use trusted resources like study Bibles, podcasts, or even that one friend who always has a quote ready. Just remember: it’s not cheating—it’s collaborating.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Leading a Bible study isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being prepared. Your group doesn’t need a seminary professor; they need someone who shows up, listens well, and points them to Jesus.

So prep with joy, lead with grace, and remember: even if your notes are scribbled on a napkin, God can use it.

Now go forth and prep like the pro you are!