What we do and what we don’t do matters when teaching the Word of God. It isn’t just what we say and do that teaches but also what we don’t say and do.
Both overemphasizing certain doctrines or not teaching other truths can give a skewed view of God and His ways. We must be careful not to slant our teaching toward our own theology or human wisdom. God wants us to teach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) for “ALL Scripture is useful” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
If we only teach “what” and not “how”, we could give the impression that knowledge alone is enough in the Christian life.
Our silence could appear to others as though we’re condoning sinful behavior. A Christ-like response is full of grace and truth. Remember how Jesus didn’t condemn the woman at the well. Yet, He wasn’t silent about her behavior. He exhorted her, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (Jn. 8:3-11)
A lack of consistency between what we say and what we do, or don’t do, can appear to be a contradiction which can lead to confusion and doubts. The whole of our words and actions, or lack thereof, needs to underscore what we teach.
Examples of How What We Do and What We Don’t Do Matters
We could look at all aspects of teaching for how what we do and don’t do matters. Here, however, we’ll point to a series of posts that take a “Do This, Don’t Do That” approach to teaching about different topics relevant to a healthy walk with the Lord. Perhaps you can catch up on any of the articles you may have missed.
Do This and Don’t Do That When Teaching . . .
- about the Bible
- how to Study the Bible
- Character Development
- the Stewardship of Giving
- Outreach
- about Prayer
- on Relationships
- about Serving
- Worship
Watch Your Life and Doctrine Closely, Both In What You Do and Don’t Do
Whether it’s by emphasis, assumptions, attitudes, purposes, approaches, impressions, actions, or reactions, both what we say and do and what we don’t say and do, has the potential of impacting lives for good or for bad. As the Apostle Paul told Timothy, “Watch your life and doctrine closely” because it not only affects you but also those you serve (1 Tim. 4:16). Be conscientious not only about what you say and do but also what you don’t say and do. Stay alert. Stop and pay close and careful attention to all you do and don’t do.