THE CAUTION OF TEACHERS

 

Friday, September 15, 2023

 

THE CAUTION OF TEACHERS

 

James 3:1-5

3 My brethren, be not many masters [didaskalos, teachers], knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.

5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! KJV

 

          James warned against the desire to be masters, or teachers. He lists several reasons for this warning. He pointed out that teachers will suffer greater “condemnation” than students due to their influence.

 

          The possibility of “offense” is always present. Here the word “offend” is the Greek ptaio which literally means “to trip or to cause one to stumble.” I remember the warning of Jesus as well.

 

Luke 17:1-2

17 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!

2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. KJV

 

          Jesus used the word skandalizo [scandal] which, like ptaio, means “to cause to stumble.” Clearly, both Jesus and James understood the gravity associated with teaching. Not only must the content be correct and clear, but the general influence must be pure.

 

          Teaching is a calling, therefore James warned not to crowd the queue to become teachers. Teachers are gifts of God to the churches. Pastors and teachers share a dual role of instructors and influencers. The responsibility is fearful.

 

Eph 4:11-12

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

 

Bless those who teach and those who learn today. AMEN