Teaching is an essential ministry of the church. First, it is inevitable because of the human thirst for meaning. Second, Christianity is an historical religion, and the content consists primarily of the saving acts of God among God’s people — most obvious within the ministry of Jesus Christ.
A believing community is hard pressed to discern the faith content of thousands of years on more than a thousand pages of scripture, except by the continuous and competent process of instruction. When the church fails to teach appropriately, false teachings will rush in to fill the vacuum.
The Role of Biblical Teaching
Two concepts occur in modern times regarding religious education. One is of Biblical and theological depth of content and expression — and the other is practical church programming that may lack the Biblical and theological depth.
A good teaching ministry combines these two separated disciplines into equal balance. We need to know the scriptures and biblical scholarship and relate it in a practical matter within community such as, through a Sunday School or discipleship class.
Jesus as the Model Teacher
In the gospel narratives, teaching is clearly the most characteristic activity of the ministry of Jesus. Therefore, teaching should be an essential function within the Christian community. We must study, prepare, and teach to remain a viable witness to our community.
Teaching may take place in worship services, Bible classes, counseling sessions, training events, choir rehearsals, and Christian homes. We must explore the Word of God and be willing to share that word with others.
The Teaching Ministry at Trinity
I am proud of the teaching ministry of Trinity Baptist. We have specifically called men and women who answer the challenge to share Christ in their community. We have a teaching pastor that sets the example. We have teachers who research and discern scripture as led by training and the Holy Spirit.
Thank you, Trinity Baptist, for answering the call to share Christ in our community by teaching. Thank you for obeying the Word of God as revealed by Christ, recorded in scripture, interpreted by the Holy Spirit, and affirmed by Christian tradition.
A Challenge to Continue the Work
Let me challenge you to join a class or accept the call to educate and share in the ministry of teaching. The life you bless may be your own.
Related: Holy Conversations: Learning to Pray and Speak with Grace
