Bible Teaching Notes: How Manuscripts Help You Stay Present and Precise
Not every teacher thrives without notes. In this episode, Lindsay and Kelly explore the opposite end of the spectrum—using a manuscript—and how scripting can help Bible teachers stay clear, confident, and connected to their audience.
In Episode 5 of the Teach Equip Podcast, Lindsay and Kelly continue their series on note styles for Bible teachers. After last week’s conversation on teaching with no notes, they flip the script (literally) and talk about what it looks like to teach from a manuscript.
Lindsay shares why scripting works best for her as an internal processor who doesn’t always think clearly on the spot. A manuscript allows her to capture the prayers, insights, and Spirit-led moments from preparation and bring them with her into the teaching space. Instead of being a barrier, her script serves as a bridge—helping her reconnect with both the Word of God and the people in front of her, even when nerves strike.
Kelly offers a helpful contrast, explaining why scripting sometimes felt like a wall for her. Together, they highlight the importance of knowing your wiring, your strengths, and what allows you to be most present with people while delivering God’s Word faithfully.
The episode also tackles practical challenges many teachers face: stories that go on too long, moments of blanking out, or misspeaking in ways that muddy the message. Lindsay explains how manuscripts can provide clarity, pacing, and confidence—while Kelly reminds listeners of the weight of teaching God’s Word and the need to balance both accuracy and authenticity.
Whether you lean toward no notes, full manuscript, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you discern which approach brings out the best version of your content and the best version of you.
A few episode key points:
The “win” of note styles is the combination of your best content and your most authentic self.
Your wiring matters—internal vs. external processors thrive with different note approaches.
A manuscript can be a bridge, not a barrier, helping some teachers reconnect with their preparation and their people.
Precision matters. Teaching God’s Word requires accuracy; sometimes that means relying on notes.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The goal is presence, clarity, and faithfulness to the message.
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss the rest of our episodes on note styles! Subscribe to the Teach Equip Podcast for more conversations that equip you to teach the Bible faithfully and visit TeachEquip.com for resources.
Additional Resources:
See Tim Keller’s sermon notes
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