Trouble with teaching....

[Grunt]

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

[JohnsonJones]

8 minutes ago, Grunt said:

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

In the LDS church, I have not.  When I teach classes, I can decide the curriculum, so I've never actually had to face that as well.  I may have, but at this moment I can't recall having done that. 

Your idea sounds like a smart idea though.  If I had something I struggled with I probably would do something similar, or try to find a substitute and express to them that the reason I would like them to teach was that I felt they knew the subject better or were more enthusiastic about that particular subject.

I have had a guest lecturer a time or two when I wanted to cover something but knew there were others who had a better knowledge of it than I.

Edited February 10, 2018 by JohnsonJones

[Guest]

25 minutes ago, Grunt said:

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

I do remember having that experience.  But for the life of me I can't remember what the topic was.  So, I did two things.  I tried to teach it as an academic exercise rather than a testimony bearing type of class.  I even readily admitted to them that I did not fully understand or have a testiomony of that topic.  Then I did what I could to open up the discussion with class members.  I asked all sorts of questions so I might be able to learn from them.  

Of course, this only works well if you're quite sure that sufficient people in the class will be able to contribute.  If you're teaching Gospel Essentials, I'm not sure how many would be up for such a discussion.

Edited February 10, 2018 by Guest

[Grunt]

4 minutes ago, Carborendum said:

Of course, this only works well if you're quite sure that sufficient people in the class will be able to contribute.  If you're teaching Gospel Essentials, I'm not sure how many would be up for such a discussion.

 

Is a sign of bad things to come to struggle with my first Gospel Principles class?  Since the text says they don't need to be followed in order, I think I'm going to shift gears even though it's late in the game.  I'll pick the topic I'm comfortable with.

[zil]

37 minutes ago, Grunt said:

Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?

And feel like a hypocrite doing it?  No, never. </sarcastic lie>

37 minutes ago, Grunt said:

There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.

Jan 1983 Ensign article:

Quote

Oh, if I could teach you this one principle. A testimony is to be found in the bearing of it! Somewhere in your quest for spiritual knowledge, there is that “leap of faith,” as the philosophers call it. It is the moment when you have gone to the edge of the light and stepped into the darkness to discover that the way is lighted ahead for just a footstep or two. “The spirit of man,” is as the scripture says, indeed “is the candle of the Lord.” (Prov. 20:27.)

Offered for your consideration with recognition that this is not necessarily an instant or always testimony fix, but rather one of the tools to be used in developing a testimony.

37 minutes ago, Grunt said:

As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

As someone who has been set apart (if you haven't, go get that done ASAP!!!!), you have authority to make decisions on how you carry out your calling.  For some things, it may be wise to speak to the president of the organization you serve in (this is SS, right, so talk to the SS president).  I leave it to you and the Lord to figure out whether this is one of those things.  (And since the manual says you don't have to teach that lesson right now, I'd guess that's at least part of your answer.)

6 minutes ago, Grunt said:

Is a sign of bad things to come to struggle with my first Gospel Principles class?

In my opinion, no.  It's a sign that you're an intelligent human struggling with the natural man like all the rest of us.

Edited February 10, 2018 by zil

[Sunday21]

Dear @Grunt, Yes had that experience! As a ward full of converts, many members of the ward have had this experience. What we do: read a bit of the material, ask for comments, we are frank as to our level of understanding or lack thereof but we don’t make our doubts the focus of the lesson.

Sign of dark times to come? Not at all! Just part of the process. Don’t give it another thought! ❣️

Edited February 12, 2018 by Sunday21

[Guest]

2 hours ago, Grunt said:

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

How about just being honest with the class, saying "I don't really have a testimony of this yet", and have a group discussion so the class winds up teaching you?

In my EQ class, I am brutally honest (within reason) about this kind of stuff, my feelings, my shortcomings, etc.  I think it makes my lessons more compelling, because it isn't just some guy droning on about tithing - it is me sharing my real feelings and discussing.  

Edited February 10, 2018 by DoctorLemon

[Grunt]

5 minutes ago, DoctorLemon said:

How about just being honest with the class, saying "I don't really have a testimony of this yet", and have a group discussion so the class winds up teaching you?

In my EQ class, I am brutally honest (within reason) about this kind of stuff, my feelings, my shortcomings, etc.  I think it makes my lessons more compelling, because it isn't just some guy droning on about tithing - it is me sharing my real feelings and discussing.  

I would certainly do that if I had to.  I would never mislead them.  However, because this is a principles class I remember how I felt in those seats as a brand new investigator.  Because I don't HAVE to do the topics in order, I feel it's best to do one I'm good with and study this in my spare time.  I think since I don't have a testimony of it it's even more important that I be very familiar with the content and references.  That will require more time.

[Jane_Doe]

I agree that in your case, waiting to do that lesson later is a smart move (the order is totally flexible).

For other classes, I've seen people do any of the following:

- Your move above

- Focus on the part they do have a testimony of

- Have another person teach that lesson (works really well if you're already switching weeks with another teacher)

- Be open and honest about "I don't really have a testimony of this, but hey let's talk about it"

Each technique can work wonders in the right circumstance.  Hence the importance of knowing your class and listening to the Spirit.  

[zil]

28 minutes ago, Grunt said:

I think since I don't have a testimony of it it's even more important that I be very familiar with the content and references.  That will require more time.

This is wisdom beyond many a long-term member.  Good for you to take this approach.

[Jane_Doe]

Side note: one of the BEST lessons on marriage I've ever had in Sunday School was this last fall.  It was taught be a never-married man in his 40's, who very openly said "I feel that I am the worst qualified person ever to teach this lesson".  All I can say is... wow, Christ can work wonders with a humble vessel.  

[Sunday21]

The best Relief Society teacher I ever had was a very recent convert from Zimbabwe. She had just been baptized. She went through the lesson slowly asking the sisters honest questions as she puzzled out the material. She was deeply sincere. The Spirit in the room was very powerful. We all learnt a lot!

[Grunt]

Stay tuned for next week, when I announce my release.....

[zil]

25 minutes ago, Grunt said:

Stay tuned for next week, when I announce my release.....

If only it were that easy.

[Fether]

4 hours ago, Grunt said:

Stay tuned for next week, when I announce my release.....

I once had to teach 30+ missionaries something that the mission president felt inspired they needed to know. I had a direct issue with it and felt it went against everything I experienced in my mission. I was pretty bitter, but went with it anyway. Immediately after I taught it to the missionaries in a meeting, one Elder raised his hand and asked the exact question I had and expressed the same issue I had. As soon as he got done sharing his thoughts and questions, the answer to it came to my mind by way of the spirit and I answered both Mine and his question in that moment.

d+c 84:85 “treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man.”

[seashmore]

On 2/10/2018 at 2:59 PM, Grunt said:

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

I'm sure that I have, just can't think of what. Probably training on visiting teaching. (I still struggle with that.) I think it can be a great opportunity to allow the Spirit to do most of the teaching, as well as guide you in what to study as you learn more. I regularly tell the YW that I teach "I'm not sure." Sometimes they provide me with an insight that can be added to the bit I know, which completes the picture.

 

On 2/10/2018 at 6:09 PM, Jane_Doe said:

 

Side note: one of the BEST lessons on marriage I've ever had in Sunday School was this last fall.  It was taught be a never-married man in his 40's, who very openly said "I feel that I am the worst qualified person ever to teach this lesson".  All I can say is... wow, Christ can work wonders with a humble vessel.  

 

One of my most intimidating assignments was speaking on Valentine's Day to the YSA ward on "Preparing for Temple Marriage." Also, the next time one of my mommy friends shares the "I thought I was a perfect parent until I became one" meme, I'm going to take it as a solicitation for parenting advice from me. (Not really, but I probably will throw some sass out.)

[Grunt]

I went with the original lesson.   The downside to Mormons being so nice is I can't tell if "it went great" means it really went well or if that's a form of "bless your heart, you tried so hard".

[Sunday21]

20 minutes ago, Grunt said:

I went with the original lesson.   The downside to Mormons being so nice is I can't tell if "it went great" means it really went well or if that's a form of "bless your heart, you tried so hard".

I am sure that it was great and we all wish that you were in our ward! That Principles class would be packed! ❤️

[zil]

57 minutes ago, Grunt said:

I went with the original lesson.   The downside to Mormons being so nice is I can't tell if "it went great" means it really went well or if that's a form of "bless your heart, you tried so hard".

It could be both.  From your posts here, I expect you did better than you think you did.  From personal experience, those of us who have been around and observant long enough recognize that "great" will vary from person to person - I don't expect the same from a child that I expect from a grown-up; I don't expect the same from a newbie that I expect from a pro.  When I personally deem something "great" it is because it was at or beyond the high end of my expectations for that person.

[Grunt]

2 minutes ago, zil said:

It could be both.  From your posts here, I expect you did better than you think you did.  From personal experience, those of us who have been around and observant long enough recognize that "great" will vary from person to person - I don't expect the same from a child that I expect from a grown-up; I don't expect the same from a newbie that I expect from a pro.  When I personally deem something "great" it is because it was at or beyond the high end of my expectations for that person.

Thanks.  My takeaway from that is "make sure everyone has low expectations from me.

[Fether]

1 hour ago, Sunday21 said:

I am sure that it was great and we all wish that you were in our ward!

Would you have said the same thing if you thought it was terrible and didn’t want him in your ward?

[anatess2]

On 2/10/2018 at 3:59 PM, Grunt said:

I'm sure most of you had had teaching callings, so hopefully, someone can relate.  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

I used to get this when I was teaching Relief Society.  I don't get to choose my topic so I study, pray, study, pray, study, pray, desperately study, desperately pray for a whole month (I only taught on 4th Sundays) and then I teach.  My assigned topics were from General Conference talks.  Sometimes, I get comfortable enough about the topic in that month to be confident in teaching it, sometimes I don't.  When I don't, I go stand up in front of class and teach what the Prophet/Apostle/GA said about the topic (whether I gained a testimony of it or not) then the class pitches in with what they think about it and I pitch in with what I think about it.  Now, this is my testimony to you... I have never stood up in class and felt abandoned by the Holy Ghost.  There are times when I would feel the Spirit strong when I ponder what I'm going to say next even as I discuss a topic I wasn't sure of at the start of the hour.  There are times when I wouldn't have that strong feeling the entire hour but even then, I always feel that the Spirit is in the room. 

That calling was my very first calling after getting baptized - that was 17 or so years ago.  And just yesterday - we were discussing Enoch in Sunday School - the teacher talked about God qualifying those He calls and I shared with the class about how I've never had a calling that I was comfortable with at the beginning and when I finally get comfortable with it then I get called to do something else... and some elderly woman in the ward who has been a member all her life said she learned new perspectives about the gospel when I taught in RS!

Edited February 12, 2018 by anatess2

[warnerfranklin]

On 2/10/2018 at 1:59 PM, Grunt said:

  Have you ever had to teach something you struggled with?  There are aspects of doctrine that I just don't have a testimony of.  As of now, I think I'll just skip that subject until I have more time to study it.  I don't think it's fair to anyone who may be in class if I try to teach something I'm unsure of.

I’m a relatively new convert to the LDS faith and I currently teach in the Elders Quorum, and often - say 2 out of 3 months - I will come across something I think I don’t have a testimony for or a doctrine I don’t fully understand. 

But I have found, that this is actually a blessing because in my preparation for my class I either:

1) Gain a working understanding of the doctrine I am struggling with or

2) Gain a testimony of the doctrine or 

3) Find the missing piece for something I am personally struggling with or 

4) All the above

If there are points of doctrine that you don’t understand that is a great opportunity to encourage group participation!  

I had to give a class on the Holy Spirit and this was during a time when I was struggling with understanding the LDS doctrine of the Godhead (having come from an evangelical background). I began my lesson by explaining why I believed in the Trinity and then simply said, “Tell me why this is incorrect”.  

The feedback I received was incredible. Not only were many of my questions answered, but I feel it was one of the best lessons I ever gave.  They could tell I had honest questions that needed answered and they were happy to help me reach that understanding.

Elder Holland once said something along the lines of there is nothing wrong with not having a testimony about this or that so long as we are trying to obtain that testimony. 

If I may humbly suggest, check out Elder Holland’s talk “Lord I Believe”.  It was a great help to me when I had doubts.

May God bless and keep you!