As I was thinking about this today, I got a little worried. I started wondering, what qualifies me to be a teacher? To teach others what God’s word says? And I realized, nothing really does. I have no degrees in theology, no background in teaching, nothing that would give me any qualifications for teaching others about God’s word.
So what am I really doing when I’m writing a blog post? I am not viewing myself as a teacher, that’s for sure. I see myself writing down my thoughts on what God is speaking to my heart, so that I can share them with others, similar to what I would do in a face-to-face conversation. I want others to know what I’m learning, and get their responses! If they agree, I want to know. Disagree? I’d love to hear why! Have any experience with the topic? I would love to hear the story. My desire is to be able to encourage others with my words, and to be able to have spiritual conversations with others. My desire is to grow in Christ, and help others do the same. But I do not want the responsibility of being a formal teacher of the word. Why not?
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.
James 3:1-2 (ESV)
I already fear writing something that doesn’t quite align with scripture, but being a formal teacher comes with greater judgment! We are responsible for how we teach others about God’s word. We need to be sure we’re teaching the truth, and leading people toward Christ and not away from Him. And their lives are under more scrutiny; are they really living for God? I realize that having my own blog is kinda going to do the same thing: put me under the light. And I also realize that I don’t live a perfect life. I sin. I have to repent. And I don’t want to be considered the ultimate knowledge for anything! I’m far from it. Only God has boundless wisdom and knowledge. I’ve only got a small speck of it.
So, please see what I write as me sharing what I’m learning and being convicted on in my life, but not a formal teaching or an absolute interpretation of Scripture. I’m honestly sharing my thoughts and feelings, but I’m not an expert. Please feel free to start discussions with me! I want to hear your thoughts as you read mine. 🙂