Jesus Taught Others

I am thankful for the people among us who are teachers in our Bible school classes, our Adult Bible Fellowship groups, our elective classes, and smaller groups. I am thankful that so many of them take additional time out of their already hectic weeks to prepare and teach lessons so that our children, teens, and adults can learn from God’s Word. It’s a job that has high expectations (James 3:1 says teachers will be judged more strictly), and it often comes with little recognition. Although our teachers do not expect recognition, I am often remiss in my appreciation of their dedication and efforts. So, thanks to all of our teachers; I do appreciate you and your work!

It’s just that I’d like to add to the ranks of our teachers. While I know that not all of us are gifted to be teachers (Romans 12:7) and that not all of us are called to be teachers (1 Corinthians 12:28, 29), I believe that all of us are called to teach in one way or another. If we are to be more like Jesus, then we need to develop a habit of teaching others. In Mark 10:1, it says about Jesus that “crowds of people came to him, and as was his custom, he taught them.” In addition to becoming more like Jesus, we must be obedient to Jesus, who said in Matthew 28:20 that making disciples involves “teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

While I would love to have more people called to be teachers in our Bible study programs Sunday morning and throughout the week, I know that not all of us are called or gifted in that way. However, we can all teach others. Parents must teach their children (Deuteronomy 6). Older men and women must teach younger generations (Titus 2:2, 3). Leaders must teach within the body of believers (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:2, 24). In Colossians 3:16 Paul tells us: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” Regardless of your role, you have an opportunity and a responsibility to teach. Let’s do it together.