We’re in a series of posts with misconceptions containing partial truth, looking at how Jesus would correct it based on His teaching in Matthew 5:19.
Here we want to focus on a line of thinking that might sound good but actually could negatively affect how we teach.
Misconception #2: What really matters is that Bible teachers love Jesus.
Problem: Too often we use this line of thinking as a rationalization for not adequately preparing. God knows our heart, we reason. Leaders might justify inadequate recruitment or training practices, saying anyone will do as long as they love Jesus.
Truth: Loving the Lord is VERY important. Jesus identified love for God as the greatest commandment (Matt. 22:36-38). Yet, many Scripture passages also stress that it does matter how we teach. You’ll find a list of articles related to some of those passages at: Foundation for Bible Teaching
Lessons from Jesus in Matthew 5:19 about How We Teach
Jesus said, “ANYONE who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven.” He doesn’t make exceptions. “Anyone” includes each and every one of us, no matter how much we love Jesus. We will not receive His commendation if how we teach invalidates His Word.
We are all accountable to accurately communicate truth which takes diligence and conscientious study (2 Tim. 2:15). Busy people who love the Lord still need to rightly divide the Word.
Also Read:
- Diligent Bible Teachers
- Accountable Bible Teachers
- Faithful Bible Teachers
- Conscientious Bible Teachers
Somehow we get this line of thinking backwards. Shouldn’t our love for God propel us to more accurately and faithfully teach His Word, rather than excuse us? — “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.” (Jn. 14:21)