We all might agree that Bible teachers should be aiming toward application of truth with their students. And, as we’ve noted in a previous post, fellow students should be spurring one another on as well. But, what does application look like?
The Aim of Bible Application Based on Hebrews 10:24
Notice how Hebrews 10:24 exhorts us to spur one another on to “love and good deeds”.
1) Love
We often think of application as an outward act… what we “do” with what we learn. Notice, however, that we are to spur one another on to love, the greatest character trait we could ever have (Jn. 13:35; 1 Cor. 13:13; 2 Pet. 1:5-7).
To Read:
- The Greatest of These is Love
- Loving God the Top Priority in Your Church?
- Loving People a Priority in Your Church?
Once we truly love God and others, the proper actions tend to follow. As Jesus stated when acknowledging love for God and people as the Greatest Commandments, “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments” (Matt. 22:37-40). Consequently, if you want your students to obey God’s commands, teach them to love. Love is what brings the proper motivation in obedience.
To Read:
2) Good Deeds
Though to love is the greatest, it doesn’t end there. We are to spur one another on to love AND good deeds. We need to get beyond feelings and good intentions, even those defined as love, to DOING good — that which is honorable, that which is excellent — which happens when love is part of the equation. We want to do that which honors God when we love Him. We want to give Him our best. And, we want to share that goodness with others. We show God love when we keep His commandments (Jn. 14:15, 21).
The Bottom Line: When working on the application part of Bible lessons, think about both inward and outward evidences of having learned. Focus on the heart as well as actions.