How to Lead a Bible Study (Even If You Feel Unqualified!)

Leading a Bible study can feel intimidating—especially if you don’t consider yourself a theologian or a Bible expert. Many women hesitate to step into leadership because they feel unqualified, but the truth is, God calls ordinary people to lead and teach His Word. You don’t need a seminary degree to facilitate a meaningful and fruitful Bible study. All you need is a willing heart, a love for God’s Word, and a desire to help others grow in faith.

If you’ve been feeling the nudge to lead but aren’t sure where to start, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you confidently step into Bible study leadership.

1. Remember That God Equips Those He Calls

It’s natural to feel inadequate, but the good news is that God doesn’t require perfection—just obedience. Throughout Scripture, God called ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Moses doubted his ability to lead, Gideon questioned his strength, and the disciples were ordinary fishermen, yet God used them mightily.

"Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." – 2 Corinthians 3:5

If God is prompting you to lead, trust that He will equip you with wisdom, insight, and the words to say.

2. Choose a Study Format That Fits Your Group

Before you start, determine what type of Bible study will best serve your group:

Topical Study: Focus on themes like faith, prayer, or forgiveness.
Book of the Bible Study: Go through a book of the Bible chapter by chapter.
Devotional Study: Use a structured devotional to guide discussions.
Guided Bible Study Curriculum: Use a published study guide with questions and teaching material.

Consider the needs of your group—do they prefer structured studies, or are they comfortable with open-ended discussions? Choosing the right format will help create a smooth and engaging study experience.

3. Prepare, but Don’t Overcomplicate It

One of the biggest fears of leading a Bible study is not having all the answers. The good news? You don’t have to! Your role is to facilitate discussion, not to be a theological expert. Here are some simple ways to prepare:

Read the passage in advance and take notes.
Use study tools like commentaries, a study Bible, or online resources.
Prepare discussion questions that help the group reflect on the passage.
Pray for wisdom and guidance before each session.

Your job is to create a space where people feel comfortable exploring Scripture, asking questions, and applying God’s Word to their lives.

4. Foster Meaningful Discussion

A great Bible study isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about transformation. Encourage your group to think deeply and share openly by asking thoughtful questions, such as:

What stood out to you in this passage?
How does this apply to your life?
What do we learn about God’s character here?
How can we live out this truth in our daily lives?

Let the conversation flow naturally, and don’t rush to fill silences. Some of the best insights come when people have time to reflect.

5. Create a Welcoming and Supportive Environment

Your group doesn’t need a perfect leader; they need someone who is willing to listen, encourage, and create a space where they feel safe to share. Here’s how you can foster a positive atmosphere:

Pray together – Start and end each study with prayer.
Encourage authenticity – Allow people to share their struggles without fear of judgment.
Respect different perspectives – Not everyone will interpret Scripture in the same way, and that’s okay!
Keep the focus on Christ – Gently guide discussions back to Scripture when needed.

The goal of Bible study is not just to gain knowledge, but to grow together in faith and community.

6. Trust That God Will Work Through You

You may not feel like an expert, but God is the true teacher. Your job is to create an environment where people can engage with Scripture, hear from the Holy Spirit, and encourage one another in faith.

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." – Matthew 18:20

Even if you don’t feel fully equipped, God is with you. Your willingness to lead is an act of faith, and He will use it to bless and grow both you and your group.

7. Equip Yourself with Our Bible Study Leaders’ Toolkits

We know that leading a Bible study comes with a lot of practical challenges—the kind no one really prepares you for. That’s why we created the Bible Study Schoolhouse Leader’s Toolkit.

The Leader’s Toolkit is designed to equip and encourage you as you guide your group deeper into God’s Word. This comprehensive resource includes everything you need to lead well—whether it’s your very first time hosting a Bible study or you’re a seasoned leader looking for fresh encouragement.

Here’s what’s inside:

Discussion Guide with thoughtful, Scripture-rich questions to foster meaningful conversations
Training Video packed with our best tips for leading with confidence and grace
Practical teaching on honing your leadership skills, including shepherding a group, facilitating dialogue, and encouraging spiritual growth
Book Overview to help you understand the study at a glance
Biblical Overview to deepen your grasp of the text and its themes

Whether you’re gathering women in your living room, leading a church group, or walking through the study with just a few friends, the Leader’s Toolkit is your go-to resource for leading with wisdom, warmth, and a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Want to stay in the loop? Follow us on Instagram, @biblestudyschoolhouse for updates, new releases, and leadership tips!

Leading a Bible study doesn’t require perfection—just a willing heart and a commitment to growing in God’s Word. If you feel God calling you to step up, trust that He will equip you for the task. Pray, prepare, and step forward in faith. The Holy Spirit will guide you, and as you lead, you’ll find that God is shaping you just as much as those in your group.

So take that step, gather your group, and watch how God moves through your Bible study!