(D) The questions on The World in Bible Times beginning at page [38] of this volume will increase interest in Hebrew history itself by showing the relationship between the Jews and surrounding nations.
Geographical Setting
"Teaching, like pictures, must have background and foreground." The central group of characters in the lesson must have prominence, but their setting must be clearly defined, too, that the whole may be appreciated. By many pupils the Bible is regarded as a Book entirely apart from life. If asked to recall a well-known historical incident connected with Egypt or Assyria or Rome, a pupil does not naturally think of a Bible incident. A teacher may often open an entirely new field of thought for pupils by bringing the Holy Land down out of the skies and "placing it on the map."
In [Part III] of this volume are given a bird's-eye view of Palestine for general reference; questions on the well-known places in Bible lands and of especial interest because they refer to pictures which may be used in class; and questions which locate the Bible characters in the land. For the latter section it is well to use a blackboard or sand map in class to make plain the setting of each lesson. All of [Part III] furnishes helpful material for the teacher's study and presents interesting sidelights to give what has seemed a commonplace lesson new meaning and new interest.
The Question Method
To hold attention in class the question method is best. It is most effective because in order to give the answers the pupil must think for himself.
Questions are so important that a wise teacher will always prepare them in advance. If put in order they will form an outline or plan to be followed in presenting the lesson.
At the end of [Part II] of this volume are one thousand questions on the Bible passages listed according to names and periods for easy [{164}] reference. They are useful in many ways: As an outline for the teacher, as suggested above; as review questions when two classes may unite for a contest; and as an incentive to the pupils to study the lesson. Give out a striking question on the coming lesson each week instead of the general request to "study the lesson."
Use of Pictures
In teaching little children pictures have long been considered invaluable, but their practical value in the more advanced departments is not so generally conceded. The adult mind, however, has not outgrown its love for the truths of life as expressed in pictorial form and the teacher of adult classes who owns THE BIBLE STORY is fortunate indeed in having right at hand impressive illustrations for a great many Bible lessons.