The Teacher’s Task

.... As discussed in our previous posting, the gift of a teacher underlies each of the other major ministries: the apostle, prophet, evangelist or pastor. Some Christians are also dedicated teachers, without those higher functions. But no matter who is teaching, Jesus Himself must be the constant lesson and object for our growth; for we are not just ‘growing up’ as Christians, we are becoming Christ-like, so that He may be glorified in our lives (John 6:27).

.... "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher."

(Luke 6:40)

.... Therefore the effectiveness of the teacher is measured, not by their skills of presentation, but by their results. When the students grow into Jesus’ image, and when they are equipped to minister, it is the true mark of the teacher’s progress as well:

.... "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?"

(1 Thessalonian 2:19)

.... This speaks very clearly to the teacher’s motivation. They are servants to the Lord first of all, and then to the students as such, and should never be concerned with seeking a name for themselves (2 Corinthians 4:5). If they do well in their task, they look forward to a great reward from the Lord (Daniel 12:2-3). But in a reciprocal sense they are also given a warning:

.... "My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment."

(James 3:1)

.... God has a much stricter judgment in mind for teachers because others may act on their advice or counsel. If their advice is good and the teacher succeeds in pointing them to Jesus, the listeners will benefit in bringing forth fruit to eternal life. And the teacher, too, will receive a reward for speaking faithfully (Daniel 12:3).

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.... But if, on the other hand, their advice is bad, they may become a stum- bling block and must share the responsibility for their student’s sins. They may even be considered an accessory, to share in their punishment. And this is especially true when they are vouching for someone else by putting them into the ministry:

.... "Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure."

(1 Timothy 5:22)

.... This is quite a responsibility for any teacher to bear! (Isaiah 3:12-15; Jeremiah 27:15; James 3:1-2; 2 John 11 KJV). Therefore, they must always do their best to represent the Lord’s counsel honestly, letting God be true and showing every man as a liar, as it is written: ‘That you may be justified in your words, and may overcome when you are judged.’ (Romans 3:4).
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.... As teachers, we can do nothing against the truth, only for the truth; and that is the standard we must uphold in the lessons that follow, as we discuss the temptations and snares of the ministry.

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Daily Bible Reading: Philippians 3