"I'm sorry I'm late," my college teacher said as she ran into the room, flustered and out of breath, her arms loaded down with a projector, visual aids, and note cards. As she wrestled with the projector, she realized the cord wasn't long enough and dashed off in search of an extension cord. She returned with the cord only to find that the projector still didn't work. Giving up on that, she grabbed her note cards and began her lecture, but the cards were out of order and therefore useless.

I was getting irritated. I expected more from a professional. My irritation turned to admiration, however, when I realized her actions were intentional. The topic of her lesson was the need to be prepared. Rather than simply lecturing on the topic, she showed us the right way by showing us the wrong way.

This teaching technique must be used sparingly to be effective. With that in mind, here are a few situations where doing it wrong could communicate a powerful message.

1. Pick on your spouse in front of your class of newlyweds. (Be sure to get your spouse's approval ahead of time.) Once the class members are squirming in their seats, begin your talk on the importance of honoring your mate.

2. Choose an off-base theological premise and pull verses out of context to support your position. Then move into a lesson on how to handle God's Word correctly.

3. Use ponderous theological terminology to illustrate the importance of communicating spiritual truths in today's language.

Before trying this teaching method, run your plan by another person—perhaps a class member or another teacher—to make sure it won't backfire. Used wisely, this approach can leave a lasting impression. Many years have passed since my teacher came to class late and flustered, but I still vividly remember her presentation.
 

About the Author:

Rebecca Livermore is a speaker and freelance writer from Denver, Colorado. Her passion is helping people grow spiritually. To learn more about her ministry, and to read her articles on spiritual disciplines, visit www.rebeccalivermore.com.