Seeking to teach the absolute truth of God’s Word in a pluralistic society in which everybody does what’s right in their own eyes can be challenging. More than ever, Bible teachers need encouragement, not just affirmation of their value.
The Kind of Encouragement Bible Teachers Need
Bible teachers need encouragement that’s on-going, not just an occasional pat on the back.
The biblical word for encourage (parakaleo), as in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 3:13 and 10:25, denotes coming along side of the individual.
They need encouragement that’s genuine, not an insincere pat on the back.
Sometimes people need to be spurred on (Heb. 10:24). That requires the combination of grace and truth as we encourage them, speaking the truth in love.
Bible teachers also need encouragement that’s timely, more than a contrived or programmed pat on the back.
We can easily fall into routines of how we show appreciation to teachers. While well-intentioned, these efforts are insufficient to truly encourage teachers. For encouragement to be more than a pat on the back, it must be on-going and genuine but also timely. We need to encourage teachers when and how most needed.
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. (1 Thess. 5:11-14)
Finally, teachers need encouragement that substantive, not just an empty pat on the back.
Give teachers something to hold on to, something that is relevant, practical, and able to make a difference. Though our kind words can mean a lot to teachers, remember that the Word is that which provides substance to encouragement, thoroughly equipping us for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17). We might use something like Encouragers for Teachers of God’s Word. But even then, we must remember that providing these encouragers isn’t enough. We must keep at it, coming along side of teachers in ways that are genuine and timely.