The Ministry of the Teacher

Edward Thring once said, “Teaching is the communication of life from the living to the living.” Scripture reminds us that teachers are powerful influencers—either for good or for harm. God’s Word warns against corrupt teachers who feed people’s desires instead of leading them to truth (2 Timothy 4:3) and reminds us that teachers will face greater accountability before God (James 3:1).

A godly teacher’s influence begins with his life. Like Jesus, we must live what we teach—being the right example, remaining faithful, studying and preparing diligently, and living in daily fellowship with God. A teacher’s message must be the truth of God’s Word—never diluted, never compromised, and never hidden in shame. Paul could boldly say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” (Romans 1:16), because he believed it, lived it, and taught it with conviction.

Finally, a teacher’s influence can ripple for generations. Just as Edward Kimball’s witness led to D.L. Moody’s salvation, and as Paul’s mentoring shaped Timothy’s ministry, faithful teaching leaves a lasting legacy. Every believer—whether in a pulpit, classroom, home, or workplace—has the opportunity to point others to Christ. God help us to be teachers who honour Him, live what we preach, and influence many for the cause of the Gospel.

“Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12