Teaching is Serious (Bulletin Article for December 9)
At 9th Avenue we are blessed in many ways. One of our blessings is the tremendous number of members who volunteer to teach in our Bible school program. We have enough teachers that we are able to give extended breaks to them, so they can learn more of the Bible.
Our students benefit from having several teachers. The students learn that several people care for them, and their spiritual development. They get to learn from teachers who have different perspectives and life experiences. All of these things add up to a solid foundation.
Teaching the Bible, though, is not something to be taken lightly. While many have a talent to teach, each lesson—whether in the classroom or in a private setting—should be taken seriously. James wrote, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment” (3:1, NKJV).
James is not trying to discourage people from teaching the Bible. Instead, he is trying to help us understand the seriousness of the task before us when we decide to teach. Before we present a lesson, we should study diligently, pray, and think about our students’ needs. When we can take these three steps seriously, we are ready to teach.
In commenting on this passage, brother Guy N. Woods wrote,
The influence which teachers exercise upon their pupils is often immeasurable; and, the impressions which they make on the impressionable minds of their students, either for good or ill, are far-reaching in nature. It is, therefore, vitally important for those who thus do to be duly conscious of the importance of the work to which they aspire, and to make the requisite preparation thereto. (A Commentary on the Epistle of James, Gospel Advocate Co., Nashville, TN, 1978. Page 154.)
What a joy it is to teach the Bible! We are thankful for each teacher who takes valuable time preparing life-changing lessons from God’s Word. You are an irreplaceable part of the work that goes on at 9th Avenue.
God has always given His message to people, and then required (not requested!) them to teach others. When Jesus was about to ascend back to His Father, He gave His disciples the Great Commission. At the very core of that command is a command to teach!
Have you ever thought about the fact that Jesus had no other plan? He left His disciples with the charge to teach, and, if they did not do so, Christianity would have ceased to exist.
When I teach, do I remember that it is “on my shoulders” to continue to teach the truths of Jesus? He still has no other plan! Let’s teach as if the future of the church depends upon it, because it does!
