Preparing to teach a class in the church is a personal matter and there is no one way to do it. Here are some recommendations that might help as you prepare and teach your lesson.
Pray
Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in prayer. The gospel message is Heavenly Father’s message and He will guide and direct its teaching, especially when asked. As teachers we are to share the message inviting the Holy Ghost do the teaching.
Study
Read the material well before the day you will teach. If possible study the lesson more than once.
Share Scriptures
Use scriptures often in the lessons. These sacred words were prepared to teach and uplift. Here again the Spirit will be present as it witness of truth when scriptures are read.
Introducing the scripture helps increase understanding. Provide a back ground for the scripture. The Doctrine Covenants section headings provides a great example of how this can be done. Each give a history of when the revelation was given along with circumstances or questions that had been asked of Heavenly Father.
Ask questions
Asking questions is an important part of gospel discussion and learning. Asking good questions allows others to ponder and share, adding to the conversation and bring in the Spirit to testify and teach.
It is interesting to note that revelation and answers came often to Joseph Smith when he or others were asking questions of Heavenly Father. In like manner, when we have invited the Spirit into our teaching we can ask inspired questions of the class members that will invite the Holy Ghost to prompt answers and thought that will teach correct doctrine.
Share Experiences
Add personal experiences to the lesson.
Consider your own experiences related to the topic.
Ask parents, family, and friends what their thoughts are on the subject. Have they had any experiences you could share? We learn through personal experiences. When these experiences are shared the Holy Spirit can bear powerful witness of its truthfulness.
*Note, there are times when experiences are too personal or spiritual to share. Being in tune with the spirit will help you discern when and what to share.
Bear Testimony
Whether teaching or participating in a lesson, it is important to bear testimony of the things we know to be true. This does not require to know or have a perfect knowledge of what is being taught. We can bear testimony of simple things we know to be true related to the topic.
* Used as discussion outline with youth as a Teachers Council, considering all youth teach frequently in their classes.