As a lay teacher all my adult years, serving as a director/leader of adult education in a large church, I am alarmed at the increasing neglect of sound biblical teaching in most churches today. Biblical education is seen as just one of many options out there, competing with the cultural demands of work, schools, sports, and entertainment, and no longer seen as foundational and relevant for the stability of the family and the future of our children. Therefore, few lives are being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ, with little understanding and commitment to serious discipleship. Lyle Schaller's insights are valuable, timeless, and practical for churches that are serious about making biblical education the core of the church's program. Though written almost two decades ago, I found this book to be still relevant for today's challenges, covering the waterfront on every aspect of teaching in the church, offering a valuable tool for evaluation of existing programs and ideas for change. I recommend this book for pastors, teachers, directors of Christian education, and Christian education committee members. An update of this book would be helpful, although inasmuch as the author is now retired, this might not be a realistic expectation. His more recent books may be equally helpful.

I much appreciate the writings of Schaller. He is master of the illustration, making his points with stories and anecdotes. This book points out that the Sunday School program has fallen into disuse and ill regard today simply because people don't work at it. Schaller tells how to help your Sunday School program recover from this neglect and become the major growth, fellowship, and ministry arm of your church, in addition to its teaching function.