No matter how eloquent teachers speak, without love we miss the mark of truly effective teaching. A teacher’s love matters. It makes a difference.
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. (1 Cor. 13:1)
When “Christ’s love compels us” (2 Cor. 5:14), we go beyond merely showing up to teach the lesson. We put the time into preparation to maximize true learning. We invest into the lives of our students both in and outside of the classroom because they matter.
Can we honestly say the following to our students?
“We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.” (1 Thess. 2:8)
Evidence of a Teacher’s Love
The following acrostic shows some of the ways teachers demonstrate love to their students, giving evidence of a teacher’s love:
L – Learn about Them as Individuals
Learn their names, interests, backgrounds, etc. Then use that information to engage them and to pray for and with them.
O – Offer an Oasis
Provide a safe place for people to express their doubts, fears, and failures … to be themselves. Build an environment where people can both laugh and cry together. Make it a place people want to be.
V – Value Them
Let people know they matter to you, that they’re important. Treat them like each person’s thoughts and contributions to class discussion matters.
E – Engage Them on a Personal Level
Ask questions about their lives. Truly listen when they talk. Make eye contact. If teaching children, get on their level. Speak with them outside of class.
What a difference it makes when Bible teachers truly love their students!
For another acrostic using the word LOVE, check out the Does your heart beat with the love of God? Worksheet.