Teacher Appreciation Day James 3:1 August 28, 2005 Speaker: Randal Myers

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Teachers and Teaching

James on Teaching: Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. (James 3:1)

• Is James saying that we need fewer teachers? Not at all. To understand the nature of James' comment, we have to look at the text and the context of his letter.
  • The audience of James aren't legalistic Christians...they are lazy Christians.
    • Remember this is the bunch James had to challenge about their faith...he instructs them that their faith is dead if it doesn't produce the appropriate actions. (James 2:18-26)
    • He's warned them about other issues:
      • Faulty practice (James 1:22)
      • Loose Tongues (James 1:26)
      • Prejudice (James 2:1)
      • Lack of Faith (James 2:12-13)
      • Dead Faith (James 2:14)
  • It's to these dead-faith Christians that he warns in saying ìnot many of you should be teachers," that they will find themselves being judged more strictly...but who will judge?
    • God
    • Students

Teaching in Scripture

• We don't need fewer teachers, we need more faithful, committed, effective teachers. In fact the Bible encourages and even requires that we become teachers. Consider these verses.
  • Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom... - Colossians 3:16
  • We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach... - Romans 12:6-7
  • You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. - 2 Timothy 2:1-2

The Effective Teacher

• Provides an Opportunity for Education
  • "Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked. "How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me?" - Acts 8:30-31
• Provides a Basis for Transformation
  • Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. - Romans 12:1-2
• Provides a Catalyst for Inspiration
  • I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you - Ephesians 1:18

Conclusion

Teaching kids to count is fine...teaching them what counts is best!

• I believe we can truly shape our church, our families and ultimately our civilization by effective teaching in our Sunday Schools and Bible Classes.

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