Jesus is the greatest Gift, but sound Bible teaching is another one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity. It's a sacred thread woven through the story of redemption. We are born without knowledge, stepping into a world that must be learned: how to speak, move, relate, and discern right from wrong. From our first breath, we are students, shaped by instruction. It is no surprise, then, that Scripture exalts teaching as a divine calling, a vital means through which truth and wisdom are passed from heart to heart.
Paul writes, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us... if your gift is teaching, then teach” (Romans 12:6–7). Teaching, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is far more than skill—it is revelation in service of others. The true Bible teacher has been entrusted with the ability to make God’s Word clear, communicating not opinions but “the faith once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3).
For pastors, this calling is essential: “The overseer must be... able to teach” (1 Timothy 3:2). They are commanded, “Teach these things” (1 Timothy 4:11), and instructed to pass on sound doctrine with care and precision: “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2). Teaching the truth is a stewardship—it is the holy duty of those deemed faithful.
The apostles saw their ministry as inseparable from teaching (Matthew 28:19; Ephesians 4:11). Paul knew his commission came from heaven itself: “Of this gospel I was appointed a herald, an apostle, and a teacher” (2 Timothy 1:11).
And above all stands Jesus, the Master Teacher. He is called Rabbi—the one who opened eyes and hearts (John 1:38; 3:2). His lessons were living parables: lilies of the field (Matthew 6:28), children in the marketplace (Luke 7:31–32), and the farmer scattering seed (Matthew 13). He taught on mountainsides and by the sea, through stories and questions, through mercy and rebuke. He gave assignments—“Go and learn what this means” (Matthew 9:13)—and checked their understanding later. His words pierced like light through darkness. Every truth He taught reflected the heart of the Father, unchanging and pure.
Throughout Scripture, the mantle of teacher rests on many shoulders: Moses (Deuteronomy 4:14), the Levitical priests (Leviticus 10:11), parents training children in God’s ways (Deuteronomy 6:7; Proverbs 1:8), the apostles (Mark 6:30), even God Himself, who promises, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go” (Psalm 32:8).
Jesus taught that the goal of true instruction is likeness: “Everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). Therefore, whom we follow matters deeply—“If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit” (Luke 6:39). A godly teacher produces godly disciples.
Yet the Bible warns that not all who teach speak truth. Hypocrites may say one thing and live another (Matthew 23:3; Romans 2:21), while false teachers twist the Word to their own gain (Acts 20:28–31; 1 Timothy 6:3–4). The apostle John commands, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). The sure test is whether a teaching aligns with Christ and the apostolic truth. As Charles Spurgeon once said, “Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right.”
One day, the work of teaching will be complete. Scripture foresees a time when “They shall not teach one another, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they shall all know Me” (Hebrews 8:11; Jeremiah 31:34). Then, in the presence of Christ, our partial knowledge will dissolve into perfect understanding—“We shall know fully, even as we are fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Until that day, we labor faithfully as students and teachers of the Word. For wisdom is life to the soul, and “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). As John Wesley wrote, “Beware you be not swallowed up in books! An ounce of love is worth a pound of knowledge.” Knowledge alone cannot save, but truth taught in love transforms—and every true teacher leads their pupils closer to the heart of God.
Much of what a false teacher teaches is true; it's that little bit of spiritual arsenic mixed in that can get ya. Chuck Smith Senior used to tell me that.
Having a Conviction To Teach is from the Lord -- let him live BIG and STRONG in you believer. Be strong in the Word. "Be strong in the Lord" See Ephesians 6:10
Satan knows Scripture, but he aint' strong in it.. in the living Word -- he sure doesn't live it. He tempts people to sin using verses and partial verses. Always go check the context and see what part he is leaving out when he tempts you to go sin with it.
Prayfully study truth. Teach Through the Word—Always, Faithfully, Boldly. Give People An Opportunity to Come Get Right with God. Cast a Net or Hook. I love Jesus, People and Expository Evangelism!
Teaching the Bible as the Spirit leads - it's SO important! All believers need this.
Teaching it is mainly for the saved, so they will choose to grow up in God's family. Yes, to spiritually mature in the Lord -- it's for the church and biblical discipleship, where preaching the Word is predominantly for the lost.
God stirred my heart in the Spring of 1977. Since then I have loved to hear preaching and to do it cuz God tells me to: “Preach the Word.”
I was saved as a simple So Cal surfer. I’ve never wanted to become a polished or religious theologian, a polemicist, or an academician. My passion is knowing the Lord, walking with Him, pleasing Him and being fruitful while teaching and preaching the Word of God (being and giving witness of Jesus when it is right and appropriate). I want to know the Lord and make him known. I want to worship him acceptably. I want to understand what is biblical and what is not.. a little bit or a lot. All my concerns are people around me. Can we together walk with Christ biblical? Sure we can. My desire is to be biblical, passionate and accurate in all my teaching or preaching of the Word. All are to be witnesses of Jesus.
Bible Ministry (that M-word means service), it's never to be about some popularity contest. Aim to bless the Lord and minister to people in need. It is the solemn calling to guard, study, and proclaim the whole counsel of God (2 Timothy 3:16; 2:15). I challenge you to verse by verse through all the Books if you live long enough.
Culture tempts us to entertain, console, or tickle ears—but Paul’s command is clear: preach faithfully, in season and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2). Confront sin, call for repentance, encourage obedience, and do it with patience and care (1 Thessalonians 2:11).
Christ is the Stone of offense (Romans 9:33), and the cross may seem foolish to the world (1 Corinthians 1:23), yet the Word transforms lives. It convicts, corrects, trains, and restores. To soften it is to abandon the eternal for the temporal.
Be ready. Stand firm. Speak truth. Be ready to give a reason for your hope in and from God. Let the fire of God burn in your bones (Jeremiah 20:9). Teach the Word. Preach Christ crucified, not human wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:2). Popularity fades, but the faithful Word changes eternity.
Why Faithfully Teach Through the Entire Bible?
Ask yourself, is the lawn greening evenly, or are there weird spots, checks or stripes in God's lawn? The lawn needs proper feed - nutrients all over. People need what's in very book and verse of the Bible. We all need vitamins too.
The Bible is far more than ink on pages—it is history, poetry, prophecy, science, and psychology woven into a single, divine narrative. Above all, it is a love story, revealing the heart of God through His Son, Jesus Christ. It is the ultimate handbook for life, the compass for our souls, and the blueprint for a life that truly matters.
From the earliest days of my walk with the Lord, one phrase has stirred my heart: “Preach the Word.” Conscientiously teach the Word too (both can be done with one Bible message as you draw the net). You can do both in different ways even if you are not a full-time career preacher.
Let your life consistently teach and preach the Word -- add words when it's right. Ask the Lord what text, when, and how?
Ministry, in its purest form, is not about trends, popularity, or audience approval—it is about faithfully proclaiming God’s truth as He wants this done. Preach wordless with a good, kind spirit and attitude and give words too. As Paul instructed Timothy:
"Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." (2 Timothy 4:2)
In our culture today, pastors face immense pressure to entertain, console, or psychologically coach rather than preach. People are offered devotional feel-good messages, stagecraft, and humor, while the uncompromising Word of God is sidelined. Yet Paul’s charge is clear: the church’s task is not to tickle ears but to confront hearts.
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth." (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
There is no room for compromise. Preaching is not a popularity contest. It is about faithfulness, truth, and courage—even when it offends. Christ Himself is a stone of stumbling (Romans 9:33), and the message of the cross appears foolish to the world (1 Corinthians 1:23). Yet this Word transforms lives: it reproves, corrects, trains in righteousness, and exhorts (2 Timothy 3:16).
To teach faithfully, a minister must guard, study, and proclaim the Word on purpose. Paul calls this stewardship of the divine treasure:
"Retain the standard of sound words… Guard the treasure entrusted to you… Study to show yourself approved." (2 Timothy 1:13-14; 2:15)
A true teacher or preacher does not entertain people for applause or manipulate for influence. Ministers are not here to entertain. Don't do that unless you have a job to do that cleanly. Be a Christian witness first, one who walks with God and pleases Him like Enoch did.
Paul taught and preached Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2), the truth that convicts, comforts, corrects, and calls sinners to repentance. Faithful preaching balances the stern with the gentle: reproof and rebuke confront sin; exhortation encourages repentance (1 Thessalonians 2:11).
In today’s “market-driven” church culture, biblical truth often seems out of season. Yet Paul’s Greek word for “be ready” (ephistemi) captures the posture required—an eager, steadfast readiness to stand at one’s post, like a watchman, proclaiming the Word boldly. Jeremiah felt the same fire:
"But if I say, I will not mention Him, nor speak anymore in His name, then there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones; I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot." (Jeremiah 20:9)
The teacher's and preacher’s calling is urgent because people’s hearts are at stake, life here is brief, and Hell is real. A society that desires “ear-tickling” or watered-down messages will inevitably turn from truth away to myth (2 Timothy 4:4). Softening the message to gain comfort is spiritual malpractice. Christ did not water down the Law or the Prophets; neither should His messengers.
Faithful preaching demands courage, patience, and perseverance. It will offend. It will challenge. It will convict. But it also heals, restores, and equips.
Teach the Bible. Why not do both?
“Preach the Gospel as if every eye is watching, every ear is listening, and every heart depends upon it.” ~ Billy Graham
Our ministry is simple in design but monumental in impact: guard the Word, study the Word, preach the Word. In all seasons, in every circumstance, let the Word of God shine uncompromised. Let it convict the guilty, encourage the weary, and call sinners to the cross. Our responsibility is not to be popular but faithful—because the stakes are eternal.
The Bible’s Uniqueness
Written over fifteen centuries by more than forty authors across three continents in three languages, the Bible never contradicts itself. From the opening words of Genesis to the triumphant vision in Revelation, its historical, moral, and theological threads form a seamless tapestry. John Stott once reflected, “The Bible is like a symphony: every instrument distinct, yet all playing the same melody.” Unlike any other book, it blends divine inspiration with human personality, shaping truth through the lens of real people living real lives.
God’s Inspired Word
Scripture was not mere human invention. God Himself guided its authors, breathing truth into every sentence (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20–21). Each writer, with his own temperament and perspective, became a vessel for God’s voice. As Chuck Smith Sr. often said, “God did not dictate a book; He inspired a life of testimony in the writers, and that testimony became His Word.”
A Call to Study
If you are called to teach, to preach or to witness on a mission field or domestically.. locally as we all are called to do.. then you are called to study the Bible.
The Bible is meant to be read, studied, and lived. Paul exhorted Timothy: “Study to show thyself approved unto God…” (2 Timothy 2:15). Skimming a few verses is like trying to build a plane without following instructions—you might get something that looks right, but it won’t fly. The Bereans modeled this diligent pursuit, “searching the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (Acts 17:11). Immersion in God’s Word is not optional; it is the lifeline for anyone serious about faith.
The Bible Teaches Us
Imagine assembling a complex machine without instructions. Chaos ensues. In the same way, only by following God’s instruction manual can we live as Christ intended. Scripture is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). It trains our minds, molds our hearts, and transforms our character so that we reflect the image of Jesus in every choice, word, and action.
The Bible Brings Hope
Romans 15:4 reminds us that Scripture was written for our learning, offering patience, comfort, and hope. In a world where despair stalks daily headlines, the Bible reminds us that life is more than mere survival. It paints a portrait of God’s promises, of life beyond the grave, and of a personal relationship with our Creator. As hymn writer Fanny Crosby beautifully captured, “To God be the glory, great things He hath done,” Scripture fills our hearts with confidence that God’s plan for us is bigger than our setbacks.
The Bible Provides Direction
Darkness is disorienting. Without a light, even a small step can lead to a fall. God’s Word serves as that light: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). It steers us away from folly, guides us toward wisdom, and keeps our hearts aligned with truth. Today’s world tempts shortcuts, but Scripture shows that safety, righteousness, and clarity come only through obedience.
Why Systematic Teaching Matters
Teaching the Bible systematically—book by book, chapter by chapter—is not mere tradition; it is a strategic way to immerse people in God’s full counsel. Barna Group research shows that Christians who study Scripture consistently are far more likely to grow in faith, resist cultural drift, and disciple others. Jesus said it plainly: “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth” (John 17:17). We cannot grasp His truth through fragments alone.
A Life Transformed
When we internalize Scripture, it reshapes us. Our thinking, our priorities, our relationships—all are realigned. The Psalmist captured this transformation: “I have hidden Thy word in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee” (Psalm 119:11). Studying and teaching the Bible is not merely an intellectual thaaang—it is to be profoundly practical, impactxing, spiritual, soul-saving, a sanctifying and redemptive work.
Before you minister God’s word, pray and live it. Come apart with God before you come apart.
Mark 6:34 - Jesus' life here - it was one prayer time to another and excellent authoritative teaching with miracles happened in-between.
Be careful not to dismiss the people before you have an eternal truth (Scripture) conversation with them. Come to Jesus right here and now. Is there anything reasonable that would prevent you from turning to Him by?
Believers rapid-cycle, don't devolve in the flesh. Live Spirit reliant, draw upon Him. Lean into Him.
You can't gorge yourself on the truth of the word on Sundays and then fast spiritually all week long and expect to grow well fast. Your healthy church might have other Bible teaching services. Prayerfully feed and teach yourself (and family) in the word daily.
Jesus taught, and fitting Christian quotes highlighting the beauty and authority of His teaching ministry:
Where are Some Places in the Bible that We See Jesus Taught?
Matthew 4:23 – “And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness..”
* "Jesus’ ministry was one of word and deed—He taught the truth and then touched the broken." — Warren Wiersbe
Matthew 5:1–2 – “And seeing the multitudes, He went up into a mountain: and when He was set, His disciples came unto Him: and He opened His mouth, and taught them…”
* "The Sermon on the Mount is the greatest teaching ever delivered by the greatest Teacher who ever lived." — John Stott
Matthew 9:35 – “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom…”
* "Christ’s teaching was not confined to pulpits—it went wherever the people were." — Charles Spurgeon
Matthew 11:1 – “And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding His twelve disciples, He departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.”
* "A true shepherd never stops teaching; he goes where the sheep wander." — D. L. Moody
Matthew 13:54 – “And when He was come into His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished…”
* "The people heard the voice of One whose words were light and life." — E.G. White
Mark 1:21–22 – “And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day He entered into the synagogue, and taught. And they were astonished at His doctrine: for He taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.”
* "Christ did not borrow authority; He possessed it." — R. C. Sproul
Mark 10:1 – “And He arose from thence… and again the people resort unto Him; and, as He was wont, He taught them again.”
* "Teaching was not a momentary act in Jesus—it was His holy habit." — A. W. Tozer
Luke 4:15 – “And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.”
* "When the Lord teaches, hearts burn and eyes are opened." — Oswald Chambers
Luke 5:3 – “And He sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.”
* "From a fishing boat, He launched the greatest truths the world has ever heard." — F. B. Meyer
Luke 6:6 – “And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that He entered into the synagogue and taught…”
* "Jesus sanctified ordinary places by His extraordinary presence." — Vance Havner
Luke 11:1 – “And it came to pass, that, as He was praying.. one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray.” (always see the context)
* "The greatest request ever made to the greatest Teacher was, ‘Teach us to pray.’" — Andrew Murray
John 6:59 – “These things said He in the synagogue, as He taught in Capernaum.”
* "Christ’s words feed souls as bread feeds bodies." — Matthew Henry
John 7:14–16 – “Now about the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught… Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is n
ot mine, but His that sent me.”
* "The authority of Jesus’ teaching came not from man’s schools, but from Heaven’s throne." — John MacArthur
John 18:20 – “Jesus answered him, I spoke openly to the world; I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret have I said nothing.”
* "Christ’s teaching was transparent truth—nothing hidden, nothing deceitful." — Billy Graham
In Short, what can I say about God's love letter (the Bible) to Christians?
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The Bible is God’s inspired, inerrant, uniquely harmonious Word (all through the Book. Sin is sin in every book, righteousness is too).
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It demands diligent study, not superficial reading.
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It teaches, (God does this) corrects, and transforms us.
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It fills us with hope (God does this) and gives life direction.
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Systematic teaching ensures we receive the full counsel of God.
“God’s Word is not just truth to believe—it is life to be lived.” ~ John Piper
To teach through the entire Bible is to open hearts to God’s voice, to equip disciples, and to illuminate a world desperate for clarity, hope, and love.
One needs to live the life first.
A WELL-LIVED LIFE IS BUILT ON A GOOD REPUTATION, THE LEADING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, WISDOM, FAITHFULNESS, AND THE WILLINGNESS TO SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT COME OUR WAY. ~ Greg Laurie
"Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people." Acts 6:8
Righteous Teachers of Scripture in the Bible
1. Moses
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Role: Lawgiver, prophet, teacher of Israel’s covenant.
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Bible Reference: Deuteronomy 4:5 – “See, I have taught you statutes and rules, as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should do them in the land you are entering to take possession of it.”
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It's been said. Quote: “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams
2. Bezalel and Aholiab
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Role: Craftsmen gifted with wisdom to teach and execute God’s design for the tabernacle.
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Bible Reference: Exodus 35:30–35 – “And he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, with intelligence, with knowledge, and with all craftsmanship.”
It's been said. Quote: “God equips those He calls; the Spirit’s wisdom makes the teacher perfect in the craft of instruction.” – Adapted from Charles Spurgeon
3. Samuel
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Role: Prophet and teacher; guided kings and people in righteousness.
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Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 12:23 – “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you.”
It's been said. Quote: “The heart of a teacher is more precious than the knowledge he imparts.” – John Calvin
4. David
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Role: Psalmist and spiritual teacher; modeled devotion and obedience.
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Bible Reference: 1 Chronicles 28:9–21 – David instructs Solomon to build the temple and follow God’s statutes.
It's been said. Quote: “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; teaching is the melody of God’s heart.” – Psalm 19:7
5. Solomon
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Role: King and teacher of wisdom; author of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes.
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Bible Reference: 1 Kings 4:29–34 – Solomon “spoke three thousand proverbs, and his songs were a thousand and five.”
It's been said. Quote: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
6. Ezra
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Role: Scribe, priest, and teacher; restored Israel’s devotion to the Law.
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Bible Reference: Ezra 7:10 – “For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.”
It's been said. Quote: “A faithful teacher trains others to stand on God’s Word, not merely admire it.” – Matthew Henry
7. Jesus Christ
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Role: The ultimate Teacher of Scripture and truth.
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Bible Reference: Ephesians 4:20–21 – “But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus.”
It's been said. Quote: “I am the way, the truth, and the life; whoever follows My teaching will never walk in darkness.” – John 14:6
8. Barnabas
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Role: Encourager and teacher; strengthened new believers.
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Bible Reference: Acts 9:26–30 – Introduced Paul to the apostles and taught courage in faith.
It's been said. Quote: “Encouragement is the vital breath of teaching; without it, knowledge fails to take root.” – St. Augustine
9. Gamaliel
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Role: Rabbi and teacher of the Law; instructed Apollos.
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Bible Reference: Acts 18:26 – “He explained to him the way of God more accurately.”
It's been said. Quote: “The humble teacher leads others into truth, not into himself.” – Adapted from R.C. Sproul
10. Paul
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Role: Apostle and teacher; instructed churches in Scripture and doctrine.
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Bible References: Acts 13:1, Acts 19:9 – Taught boldly, reasoning in synagogues.
It's been said. Quote: “The mark of a great teacher is to make others see the truth clearly and lit.” – John Stott
11. Priscilla and Aquve iila
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Role: Teachers and mentors; corrected and instructed Apollos privately.
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Bible Reference: Acts 18:26 – “He [Apollos] was instructed in the way of God more accurately by them.”
It's been said. Quote: “God’s servants teach with humility, shaping hearts more than words.” – Watchman Nee
12. Apollos
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Role: Powerful teacher of Scripture; taught accurately about Jesus.
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Bible Reference: Acts 18:24–26 – “He began to speak boldly in the synagogue.”
It's been said. Quote: “A true teacher is one who points the way, not himself.” – John MacArthur
13. Timothy
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Role: Disciple and pastor; taught sound doctrine to believers in our outside local churches.
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Bible References: 1 Timothy 1:3 – “Stay in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines.” 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.”
It's been said. Quote: “A faithful servant teaches what he lives, not merely what he knows.” – Billy Graham
14. Titus
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Role: Church leader and instructor; disciplined and nurtured believers.
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Bible Reference: Titus 2:1–15 – Instructed all age groups in godly living.
It's been said. Quote: “The goal of teaching is maturity in Christ, not admiration for the teacher.” – John Wesley
