Bible study groups are usually where we gather to drink coffee, wrestle with Scripture, and maybe share a few laughs while downing some donuts. But every now and then, life throws a curveball that no one saw coming. One day, someone walks in with a heavy heart, eyes a little red, and suddenly, your group isn’t just about studying the Word—it’s about living it.

When death touches your Bible study group, it’s not just a moment of sadness—it’s a sacred opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

This past weekend I learned that one of the LIFE Group leaders at my church died unexpectedly (two years ago my pastor enlisted me to provide leadership to our group ministry, so that’s why I call this fellow “one of my teachers”). This man, Robert, was a long-time member, servant, and group leader. Robert died on Friday July 4. Because his co-teacher was out of town, I stepped in and met with his group on Sunday.

Here are three ways your group can rally around someone who’s grieving, like Robert’s widow, his extended family, and even the people in his LIFE Group.

1. Show Up—And Leave the Speeches at Home

When someone in your group loses a loved one, your first instinct might be to say something profound. But let’s be real: there’s no Hallmark-perfect phrase that makes grief disappear. What does help? Showing up.

Bring a meal, a card, or just sit with them in silence like Job’s friends. Sometimes the ministry of presence is more powerful than anything you might say. And if you’re not sure what to say, try this: “I’m so sorry. I’m here for you.” Then resist the temptation to wax eloquent. Let them talk—or not talk. Either way, your presence speaks volumes.

2. Make Space for Grief in the Group

It’s tempting to keep things “normal” in your Bible study—stick to the schedule, power through the curriculum, and avoid the awkward silence. But grief doesn’t follow a syllabus.

Instead, make space for it. Start your session with a time of prayer specifically for the grieving member and their family. Let group members share memories or tears if they want to. If they don’t feel like talking, that’s okay too. Just knowing they’re welcome to bring their whole, broken heart into the room is a gift.

If the study you’d planned gets derailed by a heartfelt conversation about loss, consider it holy ground. Jesus never rushed past pain—neither should we.

This past Sunday I was prepared to teach the lesson that was scheduled (from Psalm 51). But as I prepped, I just did not feel that plowing ahead in our curriculum series was going to be helpful. Instead, I crafted an experience where I led directed prayer, asked people in the group to reflect and share stories about Robert, and process the passing of their beloved group leader. That felt right.

3. Keep Showing Up—Even After the Casseroles Stop

Here’s the thing about grief: it doesn’t follow a timeline. Long after the funeral flowers wilt and the sympathy cards stop coming, friends and family of the deceased person are still grieving. That’s when your Bible study group can shine.

Mark your calendars for the “after” moments—one month, three months, six months out, or the one-year anniversary of the person’s passing. Send a text. Take them out for coffee. Invite them to lunch. Remember birthdays, anniversaries, and other tender dates. These small gestures remind them they’re not forgotten.

And don’t be afraid to laugh together again. Grief and joy aren’t enemies—they’re companions. Sometimes the best healing comes from a shared memory and a good chuckle over how Brother So-and-So always mispronounced “Habakkuk” or “Mephibosheth.”

Final Thoughts

When death touches your Bible study group, it’s not the end of the story—it’s a chance to live out the Gospel in real time. Be present. Be patient. Be persistent. And above all, be a reminder that even in the valley of the shadow of death, no one walks alone.

So go ahead—bring the lasagna, pass the tissues, and keep the coffee brewing. Because when one member suffers, we all lean in. That’s what the body of Christ does best.