What does the Bible say about standards for teachers?
Nov 11th, 2007 / Salt and Light
In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you. (Titus 2:7–8—NIV)
Your involvement in church requires that you become a “teacher”. One of the often repeated criticisms cast upon hapless churches today is that their teaching is inconsistent with the life their members lead. Many rightly call this hypocrisy.
Discipleship requires duplicatability. The word “pattern” in verse 7 is fundamentally focused on the goal of discipling. Always ask yourself, “Is what I am doing possible and desireable to duplicate?”
The most recognizable teaching opportunity is being a Sunday School teacher. However, a thoughtful review reveals that being a parent, being a friend, running the sound system, and even janitorial work require various forms of teaching. Paul is instructing Titus concerning the character of his role as a teacher. These verses have been guiding stars for pastors and church members through the centuries.
The main teacher is the pastor of the church. It follows that all teaching within the church flows from the pastoral office. Therefore the verses above are to be guides for anyone who teaches, and anything taught. Here are three principles for all church members.
The first principle is that good deeds are a pattern. Deeds stem from doctrinal faith. What you believe must be in harmony with good done. Good deeds are driven by authentic belief. These faith driven-deeds should be worthy of duplication, therefore seek to do nothing alone.
Secondly, the handling of the Bible must be with unswerving belief that it is, in every part, equally inspired and authentically God’s Word. In fact, it is the pattern by which the mentor creates the pattern to be followed by his pupils. Paul uses such high toned words as “integrity, reverence” and “incorruptibility” to define the character both of the mentor and of the pattern.
Finally, there is the matter of the product of the teacher’s role. “Sound speech which cannot be condemned” and yet the sound speech effectively pursues the object of making the Gospel believable.
If you are a believer you are called to teach (disciple). Are you honing the quality of your teaching?