Apostle James writes about words, control of tongue, but begins with warning the teachers. “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (James 3:1)
Spotless: Keeping oneself spotless in the world, yet serving the poor, orphans and widows is true spirituality. (James 1:27) Paul writes that the Church is to be presented spotless without wrinkles as bride to Lord Jesus Christ the Bridegroom. (Ephesians 5:27)
Splendid: There is an interesting proverb. “There are no uninteresting subjects, there are only uninteresting teachers.” If a teacher is excited about what s/he teaches, there will be excitement, inspiration, and excellence. Such teachings are splendid teaching.
Spirit controlled: Good teachers are those who are filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit. They have divine wisdom, and hearts full of love, and touch the lives of the people. The hearer’s life goes through a dramatic change as the Spirit of God discerns the need of each hearer and guides the teacher.
Simple language: Many times, complex language confuses people. There are many preachers who make simple truths complicated. As good communicators, bible teachers equip, encourage, admonish, rebuke, exhort and affirm in simple language. Difficult passages of the bible are taught in simple words and sentences.
Sound teaching (doctrine): Good bible teachers provide solid spiritual food, sound teaching, relevant truths, clarify doubts, and provide practical application. (II Timothy 1:13)
Spiritual food: Good teachers provide food according to the need, progress, and maturity of people of God. Some new believers may need milk, some honey, and others bread. (I Peter 2:2; Psalms 19:10; Matthew 4:4) However, it is essential to grow them to a standard where they would take spiritual solid food – meat. (Hebrews 5:12-14; I Corinthians 3:1-3)
Standards: Great bible teachers keep high standards, serious and strict. For such teachers, each opportunity is God-given, the fruits are eternal, and all efforts irrespective of the audience: small, medium, or large. Disciples of Berea evaluated Paul referring to Scriptural standards. (Acts 17:11)
Do I discern and learn from great teachers?