I’ve been in those Bible studies—and I bet you have, too—where the conversation has been less than enlightening. Sometimes the topic has veered so far afield, or the conversation gotten so dogmatic, that I’ve even wished I’d just stayed home.

The tips offered by Courtney Doctor, Vanessa Hawkins, and Karen Hodge in “How to Handle Awkward Moments in Bible Study” are gracious responses to scenarios we’ll all recognize. What do you say when the conversation falls off topic? Or when one person talks all the time? Or when someone uses personal experience to justify a theological point?

It’s crucial that a Bible study stay close to the text and teach good theology. But managing the group is also critical for making the experience pleasant and fruitful. I’m grateful for the wisdom and diligence of good leaders. Because I’ve also been in excellent Bible studies, where the conversation sparks better insights, generates deeper understanding, and stays (mostly) on topic.