Consistency speaks volumes. Saying one thing but doing another counteracts what is verbally taught. The objective ought to be to help Bible teachers become more consistent so their lives reinforce what is being taught rather than contradict it.
Questions to Ask about Your Bible Teachers to Determine Where They Might Need Help Being More Consistent:
Does the teacher’s life display qualities consistent with the life they claim Jesus came to give us?
Resource: Be-Attitudes for Teachers Devotional
Does what the teacher says about God’s design for the Church match how the class functions?
Resource: Teachers Either Block or Promote Community Worksheet
Is what the teacher communicates about God’s love demonstrated through the way the teacher reacts, responds, and relates to students?
Resource: Does your heart beat with the love of God? Worksheet
Is the way the teacher manages time congruent with what he/she tells students is important?
Resource: Time Management for Teachers Worksheet
Does what the teacher says about the authority and truthfulness of God’s Word line up with how they use God’s Word in the classroom?
Resource: Line Up Your Bible Lesson Preparation with the Word of God Worksheet
Is what is being taught about prayer backed up by a life of prayer?
Resource: Praying Like You Truly Believe HE is the Source of All You Need Worksheet
While there are many other questions we could ask about a teacher’s consistency, the above questions zero in on some key issues in the Christian life. Think about the difference it could potentially make if both a teacher’s words and actions underscore the lesson being taught.
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save (restore, heal, keep safe and sound) both yourself and your hearers. (1 Tim. 4:16)