Let’s face it—leading a Bible study group is a beautiful calling, but it’s not a solo sport. If you’ve ever found yourself juggling prayer requests, snack sign-ups, and last-minute lesson prep all at once, you know what I mean. That’s why developing an apprentice leader isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. Think of it as spiritual succession planning with a side of sanity-saving.

So how do you raise up a new leader without scaring them off or handing them the reins too soon? Here are four practical (and slightly lighthearted) steps to help you develop an apprentice Bible study leader who’s ready to serve, grow, and maybe even take over when the time is right.

For more on developing an apprentice leader, see the chapter in my book Breakthrough: Creating a New Scorecard for Group Ministry Success. In that chapter I have a detailed plan that will help you raise up your replacement!

1. Spot the Spark

Before you can develop an apprentice, you’ve got to find one. Look for someone who’s already showing signs of leadership—someone who asks thoughtful questions, encourages others, and shows up consistently (bonus points if they bring snacks). They don’t need to be a Bible scholar or a public speaker. What you’re looking for is potential, not perfection.

Once you’ve spotted someone with that spark, pull them aside and say something like, “Hey, I’ve noticed you have a heart for this group. Would you be open to learning more about what it takes to lead?” You’d be surprised how many people are just waiting to be asked.

2. Invite, Don’t Dump

Here’s where many leaders go wrong: they hand over the entire group like it’s a hot potato. Don’t do that. Instead, invite your apprentice into leadership gradually. Let them co-lead a discussion, open in prayer, or help plan a group outing. Give them small, manageable responsibilities that build confidence over time. “A steady drop wears out a rock” is a good mantra when it comes to onboarding a new group leader – in this case, slow and steady wins the race almost every time.

Think of it like teaching someone to drive. You don’t start on the freeway during rush hour. You start in an empty parking lot, with lots of grace and maybe a few deep breaths.

3. Coach Along the Way

Your apprentice doesn’t need a boss—they need a coach. Check in regularly. Ask how they’re feeling about their role, what they’re learning, and where they feel unsure. Offer encouragement, feedback, and the occasional “You’re doing great!” (Because let’s be honest, we all need to hear that sometimes.)

And don’t forget to model what healthy leadership looks like. Be honest about your own challenges and how you rely on God’s strength. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being faithful, humble, and teachable.

4. Celebrate and Release

Eventually, the day will come when your apprentice is ready to lead their own group—or take over yours. When that happens, celebrate it! Commission them in front of the group. Pray over them. Maybe even bake a cake (or at least buy one).

Releasing someone into leadership isn’t a loss—it’s a multiplication. You’re not stepping down; you’re stepping aside so that someone else can step up. And that’s a win for the Kingdom.

Raising up an apprentice leader takes time, patience, and a little bit of humor. But it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do as a group leader. Not only does it lighten your load, but it also ensures that your group—and your ministry—can continue to grow and thrive long after you’ve passed the baton.

So go ahead. Spot the spark. Invite them in. Coach them up. And when the time comes, cheer them on. You might just find that developing an apprentice is one of the best things you’ve ever done—for them, for your group, and for you.