New Testament Worship: Teaching

Teaching was an integral part of the gathering of the early church. The first disciples devoted themselves to the apostles teaching as we know from Acts 2. This idea of teaching was transferred from the structure of the synagogue gathering where leaders would read Scripture and explain or interpret it.

Paul and Barnabas do this in Acts 13. True teaching is always based on Scripture and has authority from God. There is a difference between exhortation and teaching, however. Exhortation involves urging and encouraging believers to stay true to the teachings of Jesus. This can be seen today as shepherds or elders. But the teachings of Jesus (also known as doctrines) must also be taught from the church. In many formalized churches, this would be the role of the elders, though many are called pastors. In his letter to Timothy, Paul says Timothy should be devoted to teaching the truth because it keeps everyone grounded. 

Ephesians 4:11-13 declares that God gives each community of believers different gifts and people in positions to fulfill necessary roles. One of those gifts are teachers. Paul says the church is given teachers so they can “equip the saints for the work of ministry”. Teachings are not just something for the trained clergy or bible scholars. Teaching can be done by a believer for the purpose of helping others do the work of the ministry. Teaching is a launching project for the mission of the church, not the end result. 

Paul talks a lot to Timothy and Titus about teaching since they were both leading a church and quite young in age. To Timothy he tells him to stay devoted to truth and to help others who will be able to teach alongside him. Teaching is not a one man show, it is meant for communal participation and mutual edification. To Titus he gives clear instructions to those of varying age and gender on how they can help one another and teach one another. Older men are to help teach the younger men and older women are to help teach the younger women. 

Teaching has been part of the gatherings of believers since the birth of the church and should continue to be. Teaching keeps the whole community fixed on truth, it helps train others for the work of God, and promotes healthy boundaries and encouragement to the whole community.