Teaching is highly valued in the Bible, with many examples of leaders who taught others. It encourages sharing wisdom and helping others grow in understanding. Discover how these teachings highlight the impact of good teachers in shaping lives.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Teachers
What Does The Bible Say About Teaching
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of teaching and training children in the ways of righteousness. It implies that the teachings and values imparted during childhood have a lasting impact on an individual’s life.
As parents, teachers, or mentors, we have a responsibility to guide and educate young ones in the path of truth and wisdom. By instilling biblical principles and godly values early on, we can help shape their character and set them on a righteous course that will endure throughout their lives.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”
In the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His disciples to go out and make disciples of all nations, not only by baptizing them but also by teaching them to follow His teachings and commandments.
As believers, we are called to share the gospel with others and play a role in their spiritual growth. Teaching encompasses more than mere knowledge transfer; it involves imparting the wisdom of God’s Word, guiding others in the ways of righteousness, and helping them develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”
God instructs His people to diligently teach His commandments to their children and to consistently reinforce these teachings throughout everyday life.
Integrating biblical lessons into daily conversations and activities ensures that God’s truth becomes ingrained in the minds and hearts of the next generation. When we prioritize teaching the Word of God and make it an integral part of our lives, we actively sow seeds of faith that can flourish and bear fruit in the lives of those we teach.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
These verses emphasize the divine inspiration and immense value of the Scriptures. The Word of God serves as our ultimate guide and provides essential teachings for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness.
When teaching others, it is crucial to draw from the timeless truths found in Scripture. By grounding our instruction in God’s Word, we provide a firm foundation that equips individuals to live according to God’s standards and be fully prepared to fulfill His purposes.
Proverbs 4:13
“Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; keep her, for she is your life.”
This verse encourages us to embrace and hold onto instruction tightly, recognizing its vital role in our lives. Godly teaching and guidance are not to be taken lightly or discarded.
When we value and actively pursue knowledge and instruction in alignment with God’s truth, we position ourselves for growth, wisdom, and spiritual vitality. It is through embracing the teachings of God that we find true life and fulfillment.
Proverbs 9:9
“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.”
Teaching is not limited to those who lack knowledge but extends to even the wise and just. Those who are already knowledgeable or righteous should not resist further instruction but rather continue to seek wisdom and increase in understanding.
This verse reminds us of the power of humility and the ongoing need for learning and growth. Regardless of our current level of knowledge, there is always more to learn, and by humbly accepting instruction, we can continue to expand our understanding and deepen our relationship with God.
Colossians 3:16
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
This verse encourages believers to allow the Word of Christ to dwell richly within them, leading to wisdom and understanding. As we internalize the truths of Scripture, we are then able to teach and admonish one another.
Through the use of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, we can reinforce biblical principles, encourage each other, and foster a spirit of worship. Teaching in a manner that is infused with grace and gratitude toward God uplifts not only the listener but also the teacher, cultivating a community of believers rooted in God’s Word.
Proverbs 9:10
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
True wisdom begins with a reverential fear and awe of the Lord. Recognizing God’s sovereignty, holiness, and authority positions us to gain deeper insight and understanding.
When teaching others, it is essential to convey not only factual knowledge but also a reverence for God. By imparting an understanding of who God is and cultivating a respect for His ways, we lay the foundation for genuine wisdom to take root and flourish.
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.”
God reassures us that He is our ultimate instructor and guide. He pledges to provide divine instruction and direction, watching over us with His loving gaze.
As teachers, we must recognize our dependency on God’s guidance and seek His wisdom in our own lives. It is through His leading and discernment that we can effectively guide others and point them towards the path of righteousness.
John 14:26
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”
Jesus assures His disciples that the Holy Spirit will be their Helper and Teacher, reminding them of His teachings and guiding them into all truth.
As we teach others, it is vital to rely on the Holy Spirit, who empowers us with wisdom, understanding, and the ability to communicate God’s Word effectively. By inviting the Spirit’s guidance, we can ensure that our teaching aligns with divine truth and creates a lasting impact on those we teach.
James 3:1
“My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.”
James cautions believers about the seriousness of becoming teachers, as they will be held to a higher standard of judgment due to their influence over others.
This verse emphasizes the need for humility, integrity, and careful consideration when taking on a teaching role. Recognizing the weight of responsibility that comes with teaching, we must strive to faithfully relay God’s Word, avoiding error and teaching in a manner that honors and glorifies Him.
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Wisdom and knowledge find their starting point in the fear of the Lord, acknowledging His supremacy and seeking to align ourselves with His ways.
This verse warns against foolishness and the rejection of wisdom and instruction. To effectively teach others, we must reinforce the importance of cultivating a humble and teachable spirit, recognizing that true wisdom comes from fearing and reverencing God.
2 Timothy 2:15
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Paul urges Timothy to be diligent in his study and presentation of God’s Word, emphasizing the importance of accurately handling the truth.
As teachers, we must approach the Scriptures with careful study, seeking to understand the intended meaning and context. By correctly interpreting and applying God’s Word, we can faithfully communicate His truth and confidently serve as effective stewards of His message.
1 Corinthians 2:13
“These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.”
Paul highlights the importance of relying on the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit when teaching spiritual truths. The message we convey should not be based on human wisdom but rooted in the divine revelation given by the Spirit.
When we teach, we must align our words and teachings with the truth of Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our understanding and revelation. By presenting spiritual truths in a manner consistent with God’s Word, we can lead others into a deeper understanding of the mysteries of God.
Proverbs 8:33
“Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of receptive hearts and open ears when it comes to accepting instruction and seeking wisdom.
As teachers, we should encourage a teachable spirit within those we instruct, promoting a willingness to listen, learn, and grow. By fostering an environment that values instruction, we create opportunities for individuals to mature in their faith and deepen their knowledge of God’s ways.
Ephesians 4:11-12
“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
These verses highlight the various roles and gifts within the body of Christ, including the gift of teaching. God provides teachers to equip and edify the saints, enabling them to carry out their own ministry.
Teachers play a vital role in equipping believers for service and providing the necessary spiritual nourishment for growth. By empowering individuals with biblical knowledge and understanding, we contribute to the unity and strengthening of the entire body of Christ.
Psalm 119:66
“Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe Your commandments.”
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges their belief in God’s commandments and seeks to be taught good judgment and knowledge.
When teaching others, it is crucial to emphasize the values of discernment and understanding that are rooted in God’s Word. By imparting not only factual knowledge but also the ability to apply godly wisdom, we equip individuals to make righteous decisions and navigate life’s complexities according to God’s principles.
Colossians 1:28
“Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.”
Paul declares his purpose of preaching Christ, warning and teaching with wisdom, so that every person may be presented as complete and mature in their relationship with Jesus.
As teachers, our primary focus should be on presenting Christ and His transformative power. Through sound instruction, we aim to guide individuals towards spiritual maturity, helping them grow in their understanding of Christ’s love, grace, and the fullness of life found in Him.
1 Peter 5:2
“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly.”
Peter encourages leaders to shepherd the flock of God willingly and with humility, serving as overseers and not for selfish gain.
As teachers, our role extends beyond imparting knowledge; we are called to care for and guide those entrusted to our care. By teaching with a genuine heart, putting others’ needs before our own, and seeking their growth and well-being, we reflect the heart of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Romans 15:14
“Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.”
Paul expresses his confidence that the believers in Rome are not only filled with knowledge but also capable of admonishing and instructing one another.
This verse emphasizes the empowering nature of teaching and the importance of a collective responsibility to encourage growth within the body of Christ. We are all called to share and exchange wisdom, correcting, admonishing, and building one another up in love.
Titus 2:7-8
“In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.”
Paul instructs Titus to be a living example of good works, displaying integrity, reverence, and sound speech in his teaching, so that opponents will have nothing evil to criticize.
In our role as teachers, our conduct, integrity, and character should align with the teachings we espouse. By living out the truths we teach, we establish credibility and present a powerful testimony to the transformative power of God’s Word.
Psalm 34:11
“Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.”
The psalmist invites children to listen and be taught the fear of the Lord, recognizing its significance and impact on their lives.
When teaching children and young ones, it is critical to communicate the importance of honoring and reverencing God. By providing age-appropriate instruction and guidance, we help shape their understanding of God’s character, fostering a love for Him and a desire to live according to His ways.