ODJ: aim of instruction
March 15, 2011
The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith (v.5).
READ: 1 Timothy 1:1-11
Every so often, it’s good to ask yourself: “Why do I do what I do?” It’s so easy to get caught up in simply getting things done, while forgetting the ultimate purpose for our tasks.
In 1 Timothy 1:4-7, Paul presents three failures of false teachers that—if we’re not careful—can become our failures too: (1) Their teachings promote meaningless speculations that “don’t help people live a life of faith in God” (v.4); (2) their motive is all about position and reputation, rather than to see that the truth is taught or that lives are changed (v.7); (3) they appear to be impressive teachers, but they have no real understanding of the law or the gospel (v.7).
In contrast, the purpose of good teaching is “that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith” (v.5). When truth is being taught, preached, and believed, it will always result in love—love for God and love for one another. As we instruct others in God’s Word—whether in Sunday school, a small group, one-to-one, from the pulpit, or as parents—what’s the aim of our instruction? Is it so they will “be filled with love”?
Paul tells us that teaching the Bible to others can be an uphill task, for in the last days “people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear” (2 Timothy 4:3). That’s why we have the great responsibility to teach the Word in a way that reveals God’s authority.
It’s not about our own thoughts or human wisdom but about accurately representing His Word. —Poh Fang Chia
What is the aim of your instruction in God’s Word—that your hearers may love God more, or love you more? Why is it vital that you teach the Bible to others?
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As a leader in my youth group, we (leaders) have been encouraged and emphasized to make disciples. We just got back from our annual youth camp and the speaker there also said the same thing during one of the altar calls: Mentor and make disciples.
I’ll have to share the truth in love whether they like it or not.