children in the Lord. Wives also have the sacred responsibility of ministering to their children. We are all called to be witnesses, teaching the gospel—using words when necessary. In a sense, every Christian is a shepherd, each with their flock, and all are accountable to God. Christ oversees us, and the Holy Spirit orchestrates the growth and ministry of all who are willing.

 

Yet, some of us are set apart specifically for the vocation of teaching. This is a high calling, and as James warns us, it carries a greater responsibility. He writes:

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"Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!" (James 3:1-5)

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Why does James warn us about the stricter accountability of teaching God’s Word and then immediately address the dangers of the tongue? Jesus says in Matthew 12:36, “I tell you, on the day of judgment, people will give account for every careless word they speak.” If all people will be judged for the careless words they speak, then teachers must be even more cautious, for their words have greater consequences. This is why we must be diligent and intentional in how we speak and teach.

I am convinced that the level of care we take in teaching is deeply connected to how we approach studying God’s Word. Over time, with intentional growth and effort, we become more faithful in our representation of Scripture. As a Bible teacher for over 20 years, I can attest that my study methods have evolved significantly. The growth I’ve experienced as a teacher has directly impacted my personal study, enriching both my teaching and my walk with the Lord.

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In this process, I have come to understand that by giving more attention to my preparation, I not only improve my teaching but also reduce the scrutiny I might face from God, knowing I’ve put in the effort to speak with more care and integrity. I am still growing, as we all are, and I trust that we can all improve in this area.

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I’ve written this longer introduction because your calling as a teacher—whether you serve as a parent, ministry leader or pastor in the body of Christ—deserves that consideration. Your ministry has greater consequences, not just for you, but for those who rely on you to faithfully deliver God’s Word. You deserve the space to evaluate how you approach your study and teaching methods.

In the Teacher’s Study Tools offered here, my hope is that you will be encouraged to reevaluate your study methods and the delivery of God’s Word. Even if only one small change can be made in your approach, I pray it will help you grow as a more faithful teacher. Too often, we pastors and shepherds become too comfortable with the Word of God, which leads to errors and, in many cases, a disservice to those we are called to teach. My prayer is that we would do better—honoring God’s Word with diligence and care, always seeking to grow.