Aim of Instruction
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1 Timothy 1:1-11
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).
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
more›
Read Titus 2:7-8 to see
more qualities a person
who teaches God’s Word
should possess.
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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?
