Teaching

Tactics

HARVESTIME INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE

This course is part of the Harvestime International Institute, a program designed to equip believers for effective spiritual harvest.

The basic theme of the training is to teach what Jesus taught, that which took men who were fishermen, tax collectors, etc., and changed them into reproductive Christians who reached their world with the Gospel in a demonstration of power.

This manual is a single course in one of several modules of curriculum which moves believers from visualizing through deputizing, multiplying, organizing, and mobilizing to achieve the goal of evangelizing.

For further information on additional courses write:

Harvestime International Institute

18911 Shore Dr.

Madera, California 93638

U.S.A.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How To Use This Manual . . . . . . . . I

Suggestions For Group Study. . . . . . . II

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . 1

Course Objectives . . . . . . . . . 2

1. An Introduction To Teaching . . . . . . . 3

2. A Teacher Come From God: The Mission . . . . . 15

3. A Teacher Come From God: The Message - Part I . . . . 29

4. A Teacher Come From God: The Message - Part II . . . . 36

5. A Teacher Come From God: The Methods - Part I . . . . 57

6. A Teacher Come From God: The Methods - Part II . . . . 71

7. Teaching Aids . . . . . . . . 90

8. Analyzing The Audience . . . . . . . 98

9. Stating Objectives . . . . . . . . 115

10. Lesson Planning . . . . . . . . . 124

11. Evaluation . . . . . . . . . 138

12. Curriculum Selection . . . . . . . . 145

13. Teaching Illiterate Students . . . . . . . 156

14. Teacher Training . . . . . . . . 161

15. An Introduction To Preaching . . . . . . . 171

16. Planning A Sermon . . . . . . . . 179

Answers To Self-Tests. . . . . . . . 196

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

MANUAL FORMAT

Each lesson consists of:

Objectives: These are the goals you should achieve by studying the chapter. Read them before starting the lesson.

Key Verse: This verse emphasizes the main concept of the chapter. Memorize it.

Chapter Content: Study each section. Use your Bible to look up any references not printed in the manual.

Self-Test: Take this test after you finish studying the chapter. Try to answer the questions without using your Bible or this manual. When you have concluded the Self-Test, check your answers in the answer section provided at the end of the book.

For Further Study: This section will help you continue your study of the Word of God, improve your study skills, and apply what you have learned to your life and ministry.

Final Examination: If you are enrolled in this course for credit, you received a final examination along with this course. Upon conclusion of this course, you should complete this examination and return it for grading as instructed.

ADDITIONAL MATERIALS NEEDED

You will need a King James version of the Bible.

SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUP STUDY

FIRST MEETING

Opening: Open with prayer and introductions. Get acquainted and register the students.

Establish Group Procedures: Determine who will lead the meetings, the time, place, and dates for the sessions.

Praise And Worship: Invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into your training session.

Distribute Manuals To Students: Introduce the manual title, format, and course objectives provided in the first few pages of the manual.

Make The First Assignment: Students will read the chapters assigned and take the Self-Tests prior to the next meeting. The number of chapters you cover per meeting will depend on chapter length, content, and the abilities of your group.

SECOND AND FOLLOWING MEETINGS

Opening: Pray. Welcome and register any new students and give them a manual. Take attendance. Have a time of praise and worship.

Review: Present a brief summary of what you studied at the last meeting.

Lesson: Discuss each section of the chapter using the HEADINGS IN CAPITAL BOLD FACED LETTERS as a teaching outline. Ask students for questions or comments on what they have studied. Apply the lesson to the lives and ministries of your students.

Self-Test: Review the Self-Tests students have completed. (Note: If you do not want the students to have access to the answers to the Self-Tests, you may remove the answer pages from the back of each manual.)

For Further Study: You may do these projects on a group or individual basis.

Final Examination: If your group is enrolled in this course for credit, you received a final examination with this course. Reproduce a copy for each student and administer the exam upon conclusion of this course.

MODULE: Multiplying

COURSE: Teaching Tactics

INTRODUCTION

The subject of this course is "Teaching Tactics". "Teaching" is the act of instructing another person. Biblical teaching includes imparting knowledge and demonstrating how to apply that knowledge to personal life and ministry. "Tactics" are methods used to achieve a goal, purpose, or objective. In the military, the subject of "tactics" teaches soldiers how to use their weapons to achieve an advantage over the enemy. The same is true in the spiritual world. If we apply God's methods or "tactics", we can conquer spiritual enemies which include the world, the flesh and Satan with all his powers.

In "Teaching Tactics" you will learn how to use a great spiritual weapon. That weapon is the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17). You will learn tactics of preaching and teaching God's Word for the purpose of defeating the enemy. This course uses God's Word, the Holy Bible, as the revelation upon which all teaching is based. In Biblical teaching the teacher, subject, and methods must all be in harmony with the Bible.

Teaching is not just the communicating of doctrine or information. Students must experience God, not just learn information about Him. Teaching is the transmission [imparting] of both a life and lifestyle. The life to be imparted to students is new life in Jesus Christ through new birth spiritually (John 3). The lifestyle to be imparted is that of the Kingdom of God. Students must be taught how to live as "citizens" in this Kingdom, learning both the privileges and responsibilities of their position.

Sometimes, we have been content to borrow man-made educational systems instead of learning and applying what God's Word reveals about teaching. This course focuses on Biblical message and methods of teaching. You will learn and apply methods of the master teacher, Jesus Christ. You will understand the functions of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in your teaching.

Guidelines are given for analyzing the audience, stating objectives, planning the lesson, using different teaching methods, and evaluating your teaching. The relationship between teaching and preaching is examined and guidelines are given for preaching Biblical messages. You will also learn how to train others to teach and how to adapt your teaching to illiterate people [those who cannot read or write].

If you are taking Harvestime International Institute courses in their suggested order, this is the second course of the Module entitled "Multiplying", a module which details how to multiply by sharing with others the spiritual truths you have learned. Other courses in the Module include "Biblical World View", "Multiplication Methodologies", and "Power Principles".

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

∙ Explain the difference between the position of a teacher, the gift of teaching, and the command to all believers to teach.

∙ Summarize the mission and methods of the master teacher, Jesus Christ.

∙ Explain the functions of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in teaching.

∙ Use Biblical methods of teaching.

∙ Explain the mission of the teacher.

∙ List Biblical qualifications for teachers.

∙ Analyze the audience.

∙ State instructional objectives.

∙ Teach a Bible lesson.

∙ Explain the relationship between teaching and preaching.

∙ Preach a Bible message.

∙ Develop and use audio-visual aids.

∙ Evaluate your teaching and preaching.

∙ Train others to teach.

∙ Select and/or develop Biblical curriculum.

∙ Adapt your teaching to those who are illiterate.

CHAPTER ONE

AN INTRODUCTION TO TEACHING

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

∙ Identify a New Testament reference that commissions believers to teach.

∙ Define the words "teach", "teacher", and "teaching".

∙ Explain why we need teachers.

∙ Explain the difference between the leadership position of teacher and the speaking gift of teaching.

∙ Identify who is to be taught.

∙ Identify two main objectives of teaching.

∙ List Biblical warnings given to teachers.

KEY VERSES:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost:

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

(Matthew 28:19-20)

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever explained to another person something they did not know? Perhaps you showed them how to do a certain task? If so, you have already experienced teaching.

You may be asking yourself, "Why should I study this lesson? Why should I take a course on `teaching tactics'?" In this chapter you will learn why each believer must know how to teach. You will learn what it means to teach, the main objectives of teaching, why teachers are needed, and who is to be taught.

You will learn the difference between the leadership position of a teacher, the gift of teaching, and the general command to all believers to teach. You will also learn the serious responsibility of teaching as you study special Biblical warnings.

THE COMMISSION TO TEACH

From the beginning of Biblical history, God commanded His people to teach His Word:

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)

The teaching of God's Word was the responsibility of every believer in Old Testament times.

After His death and resurrection and before returning to Heaven, Jesus Christ gave His followers some important instructions:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost:

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

(Matthew 28:19-20)

Each follower of Jesus was to teach "all nations". They were to lead people to repentance and baptism in Christ and then continue to instruct them in "all things" Jesus had taught.

All those who serve the Lord are to be "apt" or "able" to teach others:

And the servant of the Lord must be...apt to teach...(II Timothy 2:24)

All mature believers should be involved in teaching others. Paul corrected some believers because they were spiritually immature and could not teach:

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. (Hebrews 5:12)

These believers had not grown spiritually so they could teach others. They were still in need of basic teaching [the milk of the Word] themselves. Every believer is to teach. This is why the subject of teaching is of concern to all Christians.

DEFINITION OF TEACHING

The word "teach" means to instruct, show, demonstrate, inform, impart knowledge, train and guide the studies of another. A "teacher" is one who teaches. "Teaching" is the act of instructing and training others.

WHY DO WE NEED TEACHERS?

Teaching and preaching by true believers are the methods God has chosen to reach the nations with the Gospel. Read the story of the Ethiopian eunuch [leader] in Acts 8:26-40. This man was at the right spiritual place. He was in Jerusalem where the great temple of worship was located (Acts 8:27). He was there for the right purpose. He had come to worship (Acts 8:27). He was reading the right book. He was reading a portion of God's Word in Isaiah 53:7 (Acts 8:30). But he still needed someone to help Him understand. He needed a teacher. God sent Philip to instruct him. The eunuch accepted the Gospel and was baptized in water.

Without teachers, unsaved people are like sheep without a shepherd. They do not understand which way to go:

And Jesus, when He came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd; and He began to teach them many things. (Mark 6:34)

Even believers have problems without proper teaching. God said...

MY PEOPLE are destroyed for lack of knowledge...(Hosea 4:6)

THE MAIN OBJECTIVES

There are two main objectives of Biblical preaching and teaching: Evangelism and discipleship. God uses believers who are part of His Church to accomplish these objectives.

The Church is a group of people who have heard and responded to the call of God and are united by faith in Jesus Christ. It is made up of all true believers who have repented from sin and accepted Jesus as Savior.

The local Church is a group of believers who have organized in a certain area to accomplish the purposes of God in that community. Each local Church is part of what the New Testament calls the "Body of Christ". The "Body of Christ" is the Church which is composed of believers of all ages and times in all parts of the world.

The Church is called the "Body of Christ" because it is the means through which God accomplishes His purposes in the world today. Jesus is the head of the Church. Believers are His body, carrying out God's purposes in the earth.

The main purpose of God in the earth is described in the book of Ephesians:

...According to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself:

That in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ...(Ephesians 1:9-10)

In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7)

God's purpose is that every person be brought into a personal relationship with Himself through Jesus. His method of accomplishing this purpose is to use the Church:

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places, might be known by the Church the manifold wisdom of God,

According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord... (Ephesians 3:10-11)

Each believer is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lead others to a right relationship with God. This is called "evangelism".

But read the key verse of this lesson again:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost:

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

(Matthew 28:19-20)

After accepting the Gospel message, new believers must be taught "all things" Jesus commanded. They must learn how to live in the new Kingdom of God of which they are now a part. This kind of teaching is called "discipleship". Evangelism and discipleship are the main objectives of Biblical teaching and preaching.

WHO DO WE TEACH?

We teach two main groups of people:

ALL NATIONS:

We must teach unbelievers. Every person in every nation is to hear the Gospel. We accomplish this through teaching and preaching God's Word:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:19)

FAITHFUL MEN:

We are also to teach "faithful" men and women who become believers in Jesus...

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

(Matthew 28:20)

These people are to continue the process by teaching others:

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.

(II Timothy 2:2)

Each person taught is to teach others who are also able to teach. This is the pattern of continuous teaching that rapidly multiplies to spread the Gospel throughout the world:

Let him that is taught in the Word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. (Galatians 6:6)

TYPES OF TEACHERS

In the world there are many types of teachers. There are teachers in public schools at every level, from childhood through college age. For every job there are teachers who can teach others to perform that special task or service. But when we speak of teachers in this course, we are not talking about teachers in the world system of education. We are speaking of teachers God sets in the Church and of the teaching task of believers.

You have already learned that all believers are to teach others the Gospel [evangelism] and teach new believers [discipleship]. In addition to this general commission to teach, God gives some believers special gifts of teaching:

And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers...(I Corinthians 12:28)

And He gave some...teachers... (Ephesians 4:11)

There are many special abilities God gives which are called "spiritual gifts". These abilities enable believers to accomplish God's purposes in ministry. There are two spiritual gifts of teaching. There is a leadership position of teacher and a speaking gift of teaching. Those with these gifts have a special ability of communicating God's Word effectively in such a way that others learn and apply what is taught. Their teaching ability goes beyond that which every believer should have for evangelism and discipleship. They have an anointing and feel a "call" or urge to teach and preach God's Word.

God sets some of these teachers in leadership positions to guide the affairs of the church. Acts 13:1-4 illustrates the leadership position of teaching. Others are especially anointed of God to teach, but do not hold a leadership position in the Church. They only teach, they do not guide the affairs of the church.

Not everyone has the leadership position of teacher. Not everyone has the spiritual gift of teaching. Paul wrote:

Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers?...

(I Corinthians 12:29)

The answer to these questions are "No". Not everyone has these spiritual gifts. The Body of Christ is similar to the human body. Each person has a different position just as each member of your body has a different function:

For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us...let us wait on our ministering...he that teacheth, on teaching. (Romans 12:4-7)

It is important to discover your spiritual gift because when the whole Body is working properly with each person in his place, God's purposes are accomplished:

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:16)

But remember: Even if you do not have these special gifts of teaching, God has called ALL believers to teach the Gospel to all nations in evangelism and to train new believers in the discipleship process.

WHAT DO WE TEACH?

The Word of God is the authority on which all Biblical teaching is based. The total revelation of God's Word must be taught. When you teach God's Word you must not just teach doctrine or factual information. You must communicate a life and a lifestyle. You communicate the life of Jesus and seek to bring all men into fellowship with Him. You teach the lifestyle of the Kingdom of God of which new believers become a part. Other books and materials may be used in teaching, but they should always be in harmony with God's Word.

Later in this course you will study in more detail the content of Biblical teaching as you learn what Jesus taught and what the early Church leaders continued to teach after He returned to Heaven.

WORDS OF WARNING

There are three Biblical warnings God gives about teaching:

TEACHING MUST BE BASED ON GOD'S WORD, NOT DOCTRINES OF MEN:

Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (Mark 7:7)

Teaching man's rules, commandments, and doctrines is "vain". This means it is unsuccessful and accomplishes no good purpose. Biblical teaching is not based on the wisdom of man:

Which things also we speak, not in the word which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

(I Corinthians 2:13)

God's wisdom accomplishes His purposes in the lives of those taught:

...Christ in you, the hope of glory;

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 1:27-28)

TEACHERS MUST LIVE WHAT THEY TEACH:

Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?

Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?

(Romans 2:21-22) (See also Matthew 5:19)

Teachers must live what they teach because they will be judged on the basis of what they have taught:

My brethren, be not many masters [teachers], knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. (James 3:1)

Teachers must have experiential knowledge of God's Word. This means they must understand through experience [not just head knowledge] what they are teaching. Paul speaks of those who...

Desiring to be teachers of the law; understand neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. (I Timothy 1:7)

Understanding comes through experience and application of God's Word in your own life.

THERE WILL BE FALSE TEACHERS:

But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. (II Peter 2:1)

Some of these false teachers will attract big crowds because they say what people want to hear:

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears:

And they shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables. (II Timothy 4:3-4)

Many false teachers will have a wrong motive. They will teach for financial gain:

Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not for filthy lucre's sake. (Titus 1:11)

You must not accept the doctrines of false teachers:

But though we, or an angel from Heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other Gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. (Galatians 1:8-9)

SELF-TEST

1. Write the Key Verses from memory.

_______________________________________________________________________________

2. List a New Testament reference that commissions believers to teach.___________________

3. Define these words:

Teach:__________________________________________________________________________

Teacher:________________________________________________________________________

Teaching:________________________________________________________________________

4. Why do we need teachers?

_______________________________________________________________________________

5. Explain the difference between the leadership position of teacher and the gift of teaching.

________________________________________________________________________________

6. Is this statement true or false? "All believers do not have the gift or leadership position of

teaching, but all believers are to teach." The statement is______________.

7. Who are we to teach?____________________________________________________________

8. What are the two main objectives of Biblical teaching?

_____________________________ and _____________________________

9. List three Biblical warnings about teaching discussed in this lesson.

__________________________ ___________________________ ________________________

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

FOR FURTHER STUDY

1. II Peter chapter 2 and the book of Jude list some of the personal characteristics by which we can recognize false teachers.

2. If you do not know what spiritual gift God has given you, obtain the Harvestime International Institute course, "Ministry of the Holy Spirit". It will help you discover your spiritual gift.

3. The Harvestime International Institute course, "Leaven-Like Evangelism", explains how to evangelize in such a manner that spiritual reproduction will continue, even as leaven spreads through a loaf of bread.

4. The Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Multiplication Methodologies" details how to disciple new believers.

5. Study the following examples of teachers in the New Testament. Who do you think might have had the leadership position of teacher? Who might have had only the speaking gift of teaching?

-Appollos: Acts 18:24-25

-Aquilla and Priscilla: Acts 18:26

-Paul: Acts 20:20-21,27; 21:28

-Unnamed: Acts 13:1

-Peter: Acts 5:28-29

6. In this lesson you learned that from the beginning of Biblical history God instructed His people to teach His Word. Continue your study of the subject of "teaching" in the Old Testament by reading the following references in your Bible:

Deuteronomy 4:9,10,14; 6:9,20; 5:31; 11:19; 17:11; 20:18; 24:8; 31:19; 33:10

Exodus 4:12,15; 18:20; 24:12; 35:34

Leviticus 10:11; 14:57

Psalms 119:99

Proverbs 9:9; 16:23

Micah 3:11

II Chronicles 17:7

Ezra 7:10

Judges 3:2; 13:8

I Samuel 12:23

II Samuel 1:18

I Kings 8:36

II Kings 17:27

7. Here are some things God wants to teach us:

Psalms 18:34; 25:4-12; 27:11; 32:8; 34:11; 45:4; 51:13; 71:17; 86:11; 90:12; 94:10,12; 105:22; 119:12,68,99,102,104,124,135,171; 143:10; 144:1

II Samuel 22:35

Isaiah 2:3; 28:9,26; 48:17

I Chronicles 25:7

Micah 4:2

8. Study these verses on instruction:

Psalms 2:10

Proverbs 5:13; 1:2-8; 4:1,13; 6:23; 8:10,33; 9:9; 10:17; 12:1; 13:1; 15:33; 19:20,27; 21:11; 23:12,23; 24:32

Isaiah 8:11

Luke 1:4

Romans 2:18

Philippians 4:12

II Timothy 3:16

9. There are serious results for refusing Godly instruction. Study the following verses:

Proverbs 1:7; 5:12,13,23; 13:18; 15:5,32; 16:22

Jeremiah 17:23; 32:33

Psalms 50:17

CHAPTER TWO

A TEACHER COME FROM GOD: THE MISSION

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

∙ Explain the functions of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in teaching.

∙ Identify Jesus Christ as the greatest teacher, the example for all to follow.

∙ Identify personality qualities that should be evident in the life of a teacher.

∙ Explain the mission of Jesus as a teacher come from God.

∙ Summarize where, when, and who Jesus taught.

∙ Give a Biblical reference which confirms we are sent by Jesus as He was sent by God.

∙ Identify your mission as a teacher come from God.

KEY VERSE:

The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with Him. (John 3:2)

INTRODUCTION

In this chapter you will learn the functions of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in Biblical teaching. You will learn details of the mission of Jesus, "a teacher come from God". From this study you will discover the divine purpose of your own mission as a teacher.

DIVINE AGENTS IN TEACHING

Biblical teaching is empowered by divine agents. This means there are spiritual powers behind such teaching. It is not just the teaching of a man. The divine agents of Biblical teaching are God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

GOD THE FATHER:

You learned in the last chapter that it is God who sets believers in the Church with the spiritual gift and office of teaching (Ephesians 4:11). In Biblical teaching the subject that is taught God's Word. You will learn more about this in the next chapter as you study the message of the teacher come from God.

It is God the Father who sent Jesus Christ to earth to teach us about Himself and to provide salvation for all mankind:

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)

JESUS CHRIST:

Jesus Christ, God's Son, is the greatest spiritual teacher of all times. Jesus was sent to earth by God the Father:

The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with Him. (John 3:2)

Since Jesus was sent to earth as a teacher representing God, He is the example for Biblical teachers to follow. Jesus is the one who sends believers to the world as teachers:

As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. (John 20:21)

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost;

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

(Matthew 28:18-20)

THE HOLY SPIRIT:

When Jesus returned to Heaven following His death and resurrection, the Holy Spirit was sent by God to be the resident teacher in believers. The Holy Spirit dwells within your spirit and teaches you the things of God:

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you. (John 14:26)

Additional functions of the Holy Spirit in teaching are revealed in the following passages. The Holy Spirit:

1. Gives instruction in "all things" Jesus taught (John 14:26).

2. Helps you remember what you learn (John 14:26).

3. Guides you into all truth (John 16:13).

4. Declares [announces] future events in God's plan (John 16:13).

5. Reveals the "deep things" of God (I Corinthians 2:10).

6. Is the wisdom behind Biblical teaching (I Corinthians 2:13).

7. Teaches you what to say in crisis situations (Luke 12:12).

8. Anoints you to teach and minister (Luke 4:18, I John 2:27).

9. Enables prayer for students (Romans 8:26).

The Holy Spirit is also at work in the lives of those you teach:

l. As you teach, the Holy Ghost is the spiritual power that convicts sinners and causes them to respond to the Gospel message (John 16:7-11).

2. The Holy Spirit reveals the Lord Jesus Christ to them (John 16:14).

3. The Holy Spirit leads them into the "born again" experience (John 3:5,6,8).

4. He will lead them to life in the Spirit instead of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).

5. He will witness to their hearts the truths of God's Word (Acts 5:29-32).

THE MASTER TEACHER

Jesus is the example for Christian teachers to follow. He is the model for Biblical teaching. Because of this, it is important to learn all you can about Him as a teacher. First, let us look at qualities in the life of Jesus that should be evident in the lives of Christian teachers:

FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The "fruit" of the Holy Spirit was evident in the life of Jesus. Spiritual "fruit" refers to the positive qualities the Holy Spirit wants to develop in the lives of all believers:

...The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Meekness, temperance; against such there is no law.

(Galatians 5:22-23)

Read through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and note how each of these qualities were evident in the life of Jesus. Each "Spirit filled" teacher of God's Word should also have these same qualities. It is spiritual fruit, not gifts, that are the true test of ministry:

And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David? (Matthew 12:33)

ATTITUDES OF JESUS:

In addition to spiritual fruit, Jesus also was a model of proper attitudes that should be evident in the lives of teachers of God's Word. The following Scriptures illustrate these attitudes:

-Jesus had great compassion for people and their needs: Matthew 15:32; Mark 1:32-35; 8:2-3; Luke 10:54-56; 19:41

-This compassion led Him to intercession for those He taught: Matthew 11:21-24; 23:37-39

-This resulted in concern for the Father's business: Luke 2:49; 4:43; John 4:34; 9:4

-Jesus had an attitude of no condemnation towards those He taught: (Mark 2:17; John 8:1-11). He accepted people where they were and then led them to the level of faith where they should be. He did not condemn Thomas when He doubted (John 20:24-29). He did not condemn the ruler who felt it necessary that Jesus come to his house to pray for his daughter (Matthew 9:18-26) although it had already been shown this was not necessary (Matthew 8:5-13).

-Although Jesus did not condemn, He was uncompromising with sin. This means He did not in any way approve of it or overlook it: Matthew 11:21-24; 15:3-9; 12:12-13; Mark 10:17; Luke 5:31-32; 19:45-46

-Jesus demonstrated a trust in God for the impossible: Mark 10:17; 11:22-24; Luke 18:27

-He demonstrated boldness and authority in His teaching: Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 8:38; 11:24-33; Luke 5:24

-Most important, He had a servant's attitude toward those to whom He ministered: Matthew 20:25-28; 23:2-12; Mark 10:42-45; Luke 22:25-27

THE MISSION OF THE MASTER

When we speak of the "mission" of Jesus, we refer to the following:

Why Jesus taught.

When and where He taught.

Who He taught.

What He taught.

How He taught.

Let us examine why, when, where, and who Jesus taught. Following chapters will focus on the message [what] and methods [how] of His mission.

WHY HE TAUGHT:

Jesus taught because He was commissioned by God to do so. The mission [reason or purpose] of Jesus is summarized in the following Scriptures:

Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. (Matthew 5:17)

I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

(Matthew 9:13)

Think not that I am come to send peace on the earth: I come not to send peace, but a sword. (Matthew 10:34)

(Jesus meant His message would cause division; some would accept it and some would not.)

I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

(Matthew 15:24)

For the Son of Man is come to save that which is lost. (Matthew 18:11)

(See also Luke 19:10).

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Mark 2:17)

Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also; for therefore I came forth. (Mark 1:38)

For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them... (Luke 9:56)

And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

And ye are witnesses of these things. (Luke 24:46-48)

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work. (John 4:34)

For I came down from Heaven not to do mine own will, but the will of Him that sent me. (John 6:38)

...To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth... (John 18:37)

I am come a light unto the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. (John 12:46)

I speak that which I have seen with my Father...(John 9:38)

...I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

WHEN AND WHERE HE TAUGHT:

Jesus taught on the Sabbath Day:

And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the Sabbath day He entered into the synagogue, and taught. (Mark 1:21)

(See also Luke 4:31; 6:6; 13:10).

Jesus taught daily:

And He taught daily in the temple... (Luke 19:47)

He taught in cities and villages:

Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also; for therefore I came forth. (Mark 1:38)

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages teaching...

(Matthew 9:35) (See also Matthew 11:1; Mark 1:38; 6:6; Luke 13:22).

He taught in the centers of religious worship:

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues... (Matthew 4:23) (See also Matthew 13:54; Mark 1:21; 6:2; Luke 4:15; 6:6; 13:10; John 6:59; 18:20).

And when He was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto Him as He was teaching... (Matthew 21:23)

(See also Matthew 26:55; Mark 12:35; 14:49; Luke 19:47; 20:21; 21:37; John 7:14,28; 8:2,20).

He taught anywhere and everywhere:

And He went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto Him, and He taught them. (Mark 2:13) (See also Mark 4:1; 10:1; Luke 5:3).

WHO HE TAUGHT:

Jesus taught crowds of people:

And seeing the multitudes, He went up into a mountain... And He opened His mouth and taught them, saying... (Matthew 5:1-2)

(See the "For Further Study" section of this chapter for additional references on the ministry of Jesus to crowds).

Jesus taught individuals:

See John 3 and 4 and the "For Further Study" section of this chapter for references on the ministry of Jesus to individuals.

Jesus taught men and women in all levels of society:

-He taught the rich: Mark 10:17-22

-He taught the poor: Luke 4:18

-He taught all levels of society: The Samaritan woman was of a lower class (John 4). Nicodemus was a ruler and a member of the upper class (John 3).

-He taught those of His own race:

I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

(Matthew 15:24)

...teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

(Luke 23:5)

-He taught those of other races. See John 4 where Jesus taught the Samaritan woman.

-He taught religious leaders: