Let’s be honest: starting your Bible study on time can feel like chasing a unicorn. You’ve got the coffee ready, the chairs arranged just so, and your lesson prepped to perfection. But half (or more) of your group is still on the way, chatting in the parking lot, or mysteriously “running five minutes behind” for the umpteenth week in a row. They can make it to work on time, and they get their kids dropped off at school early on Monday through Friday, but Sunday church?

So how do you gently nudge your group toward punctuality without sounding like you’re running a boot camp? Here are four tried-and-true strategies—give them a try soon.

1. Start on Time… Every Time

This might sound counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to encourage punctuality is to actually start on time. Not five minutes late. Not “whenever everyone gets here.” Right. On. Time.

Why? Because when people know the group starts promptly, they’ll adjust. If you consistently wait for latecomers, you unintentionally reward tardiness and penalize the punctual. Flip the script.

Begin with something light—an icebreaker, a funny story, or a quick prayer. That way, late arrivals miss something fun but not the meat of the study. Over time, they’ll want to be there for the good stuff.

2. Create a Pre-Game Ritual

People are more likely to arrive on time when there’s something to look forward to before the study officially begins. Think of it as your “warm-up act.”

Ideas include:

• Coffee and conversation 10 minutes before the start time
• A rotating snack of the week (because nothing motivates like donuts, juice, and other food)
• A “Question of the Week” posted early for folks to ponder and discuss

This builds community and gives people a reason to show up early—without you having to nag.

3. Use Humor to Set Expectations

Nobody likes being scolded, but everyone appreciates a good laugh. Use humor to set the tone and gently remind your group that timeliness matters.

Example:
“Bible study starts at 9:00AM sharp. If you arrive at 9:05, you’ll be lovingly labeled ‘The Delayed Disciple” for the morning.

Or try a playful group text:
“Reminder: Bible study starts at 9AM. Jesus is never late, neither is the coffee, so don’t be the exception.”

It’s lighthearted, memorable, and effective.

4. Talk About the Why

Sometimes, people just don’t realize how their lateness affects the group. A quick, heartfelt reminder can go a long way.

Say something like:
“I know life gets busy, and I’m so grateful you all make time for this group. Starting on time helps us honor everyone’s schedule and get the most out of our time together. It is also great for guests, because they are never late – they are normally early, and we don’t want them coming to an empty meeting place.”

This frames punctuality as a way to love and respect one another—not just a logistical issue.

Let’s Wrap it Up

Getting your group to show up on time isn’t about being strict—it’s about creating a culture of respect, consistency, and shared purpose. With a little creativity, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of grace, you can turn “chronically late” into “consistently on time.”

And hey, if all else fails, just tell them the donuts and coffee disappear at 9:01. Works every time.