How to Teach Scripture? A Biblical Explanation
Thank you for your interest and/or participation in Teleios surveys. Teleios’ most recent survey explored ways people teach scripture. There were 230 responses. Below are explanations of biblical importance. For full results please click here.
The Bible only states that believers should instruct others regarding God’s word, such as in the following verses (KJV).
1Ti 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
1Ti 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2Ti 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2Ti 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2Ti 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
These verses indicate a need for direct instruction of God’s commandments by the teacher to the student. The venue and how this is done is left to teacher in faith to perform as they determine best. Scripture does not limit who instructs others in the faith and the potential is given to all believers.
One critical point… We have found in a number of Teleios studies that people who teach scripture have better wellbeing!
In our experience in teaching one-on-one students almost all have been “churched” as young people. Yet their own knowledge of the Bible is limited generally to specific verses for which they have become familiar, poorly conceptualized theological truths, and some Old Testament “stories”. In our research most Christians simply read the text when they “study” scripture. Their knowledge is insufficient to help them navigate their lives spiritually or practically.
Most Christians need better Bible instruction!
We generally encourage the following in teaching other believers (our recommendation, not scripture):
- Arrange a predetermined time for which the student is responsible to attend physically or electronically.
- Start with a short initial commitment of about 4 weeks to determine if both parties like the arrangement.
- Provide a definite goal to the study so the student knows what to expect.
- Invite any student based on a predetermined assessment of their need for which the study goal should meet.
- Give a clear, non-ambiguous invitation to the student and describe how the study will help them.
- Teach directly from the Bible if able, as it is more efficient and powerful than videos or books about the Bible.
- Whatever the teaching arrangement allow time for the student to respond and ask questions so you can judge the student’s success and progress in the study. It is important to provide the student a chance to verbalize back to you the truths they learn.
- Students should display a responsible attitude, attending any session offered and perform any homework assigned (showing respect for your time).
- No teacher knows everything and it is okay to say “I do not know, but I can find out!”
Teaching is one of the great joys of the Christian life. It is critical to help those coming along behind you to enjoy success in their Christian walk.
Stay tuned for future survey results!
