As a Christian and as a teacher, WHY do you teach?
I hope as you read this that you will evaluate why you teach, what are your motivations and point you towards right motivations. As teachers we recognize that the word of God is not only information but there is power in the word for transformation.
That is why Paul says in 1 Cor 13:1-2 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge… but do not love, I am nothing.
We have more than just information, but in Christ, we have something transformational. But Paul also recognize that some teach out of selfish motives.
Philippians 1:15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.
Some people do it out of selfish motives, they want the limelight, influence or have power over others, or have a large following.
God desires to transform not only our students, but our hearts as well. I know we all have selfish motives. We want to be somebody, we want to be noticed and wanting to look smart.
But God sees us. God knows our hearts. God knows our deepest desires. But he also desires for us to know him, and to worship him, and to bring all things under him.
So one characteristic of teachers with the right motivation who seek after God is humility. Teachers who seek God’s glory, desire the transformation for themselves and their students, seeking the good of others, motivated to help others are humble teachers.
So what are your motivations? Are you trying to seek the glory of God, to see people transformed through preaching and teaching of the word, to see your heart being renewed? Or do you want to look good, want to be a rockstar with a large following?
What are your motivations? I hope you it is love for God and his people.
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