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The Amish Voice 2
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Few people are as important to a society or to God as are
teachers. The relationship between teacher and student is a
subject that is never stressed enough within the church. The
present passage deals with this subject, in particular with the
student’s responsibilities to the teacher. Keep in mind that every
believer is a student who sits at the feet of God’s teachers
whether they be ministers or Bible teachers.
OUTLINE:
1. How to do good to a teacher: by sharing in the ministry
of the teacher (v.6).
2. Why do good to a teacher (vv.7-9).
3. When to serve with a teacher: as we have opportunity
(v.10).
1. HOW TO DO GOOD TO A TEACHER: BY SHARING
IN THE MINISTRY OF THE TEACHER (v. 6).
How does a believer do good to a teacher? Very simply, by
communicating and sharing in the ministry of the teacher. This
means much more than just giving financial support. Of course
it means financial support; but as stated, it means much more.
Note that Scripture is speaking directly to the
learner
, that is, to
a believer in the church, to the person who is
taught in the Word
of God
. The learner has a responsibility to the teacher just as the
teacher has a responsibility to the learner. What is that
responsibility?
To share with the teacher in all good things and to participate in
the ministry of the teacher. The learner shares in the ministry of
the teacher by...
being present
when the teacher teaches
being attentive and learning
what the teacher teaches
sharing in discussions
of what the teacher teaches
passing on
what the teacher teaches
participating
with the teacher in his or her full ministry
supporting
the teacher financially
encouraging others
to come and learn from the teacher
Note another point: the reference to the “Word” means the
Word of God. A teacher should always be teaching the Word of
God, and a learner should always be sure that he is sitting under
a teacher who is teaching the Word of God.
“
Let the elders [ministers] that rule well be counted
worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in
the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou
shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And,
The labourer is worthy of his reward” (1 Tim 5:17-18).
ILLUSTRATION:
One of the most rewarding experiences for a teacher is when
his or her students capture the truth and apply it to other
people.
Years ago, a Christian football coach invested a good
portion of his life in his players and coaches. A stickler for
details, his philosophy on offense and defense was branded
into the minds of his assistant coaches. He spent just as
much energy sharing his philosophy on what made up good
character as he did on the actual game of football. An
active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, his
faith in Christ became contagious. Through his witness,
many of his coaches and players became believers.
As the years went by, some of his players and assistant
coaches went on to coach at other schools. Showing
striking evidence that they had been mentored by this great
coach, the philosophy for each of their teams mirrored
what they had learned. The offense was the same. The
defense was played the same. And in more important
matters, godly character was stressed and expected. Like
their former coach—their mentor, their teacher—Christ
was seen in each of their lives. Through one man’s
influence, many young men came to know Jesus Christ
personally. His students were sharing in his ministry—
literally—both on and off the field of play.
A good teacher reproduces what is in him. A good student
shares what he has learned with others. Just as we are all
teachers in some areas of life, we are all students in others
areas. Are you sharing in the ministry of your teachers by
passing on what you have learned to others?
QUESTIONS:
1. What practical things can you do to share in the ministry of
your teacher?