Who gets the most out of a teaching?

Perhaps the most exciting thing that happens when we begin to follow the example of Jesus in teaching our children is personal growth.  As we begin to teach on a regular basis, our teaching “muscle” grows and becomes stronger.

Jesus was constantly teaching His disciples; is it possible for parents to do the same?  Yes and no. Needless to say, none of us can measure up to Jesus.  On the other hand, we can become MORE like Jesus in the way we teach our children!

You don’t need to be trained

Now before you get all worried and intimidated about being an “expert” bible teacher, let me say this.  There is a common myth in Christian circles that we must be trained and/or certified prior to attempting to teach. This thought process flows from the world’s educational system, but this is not a biblical pattern.  Take a look at Jesus and His disciples.  None of them were certified!  Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. The disciples were average men; fishermen, tax collectors, tent makers, etc and they turned the world upside down for Jesus Christ.  Acts 17:6b “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too. These untrained, uneducated men changed the world.  So can we!

The word of God is powerful, more powerful than a two edged sword.  If we can read the word of God aloud, then we have what it takes to do the job. The Holy Scripture will do the work if we will simply commit to reading it aloud to our family.  As we begin to read the bible, God begins the process of equipping us. Sometimes His Holy Spirit will bring something in His word to our remembrance as we read it.  We can share that thought with our family.  We can ask questions about what we just read.  As our children get older, we can allow them to take a turn to teach God’s word.  As the word of God promises, His word will powerfully transform our lives if we will simply be faithful to read it aloud. 

Other tools and strategies

If you want a little more help, you can get a Study Bible.  Study bibles explain the meaning of God’s word at the bottom of each page.  This can help you to teach scriptural truths to your family. As we begin to expound upon God’s word, all we need to do is to stay one lesson ahead of our children.  If we will prepare a little in advance, the Lord will give us plenty to teach!  But even if we simply read God’s word without a comment, the Lord will make a positive impact on your family.  For more ideas, check out this page.

What are your thoughts about teaching your family?

Readers, I would love to hear your opinion about this.  Are you presently teaching the Bible to your family?  If so, what works for you? If not, do you think you could begin to read the Bible to your children each day?   What obstacles prevent you from getting started?