Read
1Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.
Reflect
I think that everyone is familiar with the “Great Commission” found in Matthew 28:19-20. Not only are we supposed to make disciples of all nations, we are also supposed to teach these disciples. So, in light of this commandment from Jesus, what exactly does the inspired James mean when he says that some of us should stay out of the teaching business?
Since I can’t ask James myself, here’s my attempt at an explanation ala Jeff Foxworthy:
- If a person claims to be a Christian but doesn’t respect the inspiration and authority of the Bible, they shouldn’t be a teacher.
- If a person wants to teach just because they will feel important for being the teacher, they shouldn’t be a teacher.
- If a person wants to teach but doesn’t spend time in preparation, he is doing a disservice to his students and shouldn’t be a teacher.
- If a person doesn’t really have an enthusiasm for the Word, they shouldn’t be a teacher. You wouldn’t want your students to think that the Bible is boring would you?
Even though we are all called to teach those whom we have disciples, it is an entirely different role to be a teacher within a community of believers. Good teachers will be blessed. Bad teachers will be judged severely. It is a great responsibility to be a teacher and that role should not be taken on lightly.
Respond
Is everyone called to be a teacher of the Word?
Even if you haven’t been called to be a teacher, how can you help others learn about Jesus?
Can people learn about Jesus by your actions?
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