There is a lot of talk in ministry today about what is the best way to disciple believers. If you attend a more traditional church, the program probably used the most to aid in this process is called Sunday school. If you attend a more contemporary church, the program probably used the most to assist in this process is called small groups, connect groups, life groups, or something of this nature. Some churches have both Sunday school and small groups. With that being said, answering the question, “Which one works better?” can be an exciting topic to discuss. The crack on Sunday school is that it’s too old, and the coming generations don’t like it. The negative feedback on most small groups (especially off-campus groups) is that it is too fellowship-driven and it does not have enough actual Bible study. Some churches still do traditional Sunday school but just label it something different to eliminate any preconceived notions. So, which one works?

I have been a part of church staffs with the traditional Sunday school model and churches with a dynamic small group ministry. Both can work if laid out, planned, and processed effectively. I also think you must consider your church’s context. A traditional Sunday school model may not be the best model for a church plant that rents out space at a local school every week. But to say, “Sunday school is just an old school way of doing ministry, and it doesn’t work anymore,” is also the wrong way to approach things. Below are five reasons why I believe Sunday school can still work.

  • Sunday school classes study the Word of God, which is the primary purpose.
  • Sunday school classes are missions and outreach minded.
  • Sunday school classes develop new Sunday school classes.
  • Sunday school classes build deeper relationships with each other outside of actual Sunday school time.
  • Sunday school classes are exciting, and people want to attend them.

It is unfair to say either Sunday school or small groups are ineffective. Again, the goal is to develop believers in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Whatever model works best for your church… go for it! If that is Sunday school…great! If that is small groups that meet in homes throughout the week on Sunday/Wednesday nights at the church… great! The key is not to knock something just because you believe it’s “old school” and no longer works. More often than not, it would work if done with a vision and passion to reach and disciple people.