Biblical Teaching Methods

The pastoral epistles hold a wealth of information concerning practical theology. One of the nuggets to be mined is the proper way to teach with Paul giving several examples in the three letters of who, what, and how to teach. Two in 1 Timothy stood out recently because of their contrast.

Command and teach these things. (4:11)
Teach and urge these things. (6:2)

There are some immediate comments that can be made. For instance, these are imperatives Timothy is expected to obey. Next, the commands are in different order signifying different emphases. Thirdly, there are multiple items to be taught. Lastly, there is a modifier which helps us understand how the teaching is to be done. Now let us put these back into their respective context.

Paul begins chapter four by warning that some will depart from the faith and teach bad doctrine. Notice the characteristics listed:

• Devoted to "deceitful spirits and teaching of demons" (4:1)
• Seared consciences (4:2)
  
• Teaching equated with "irreverent, silly myths" (4:7)

The examples of bad doctrine are noteworthy as they are still being touted today as laudable Christian virtue--celibacy and abstinence from certain foods (4:3). These are not usually on any modern list of doctrine to condemn, yet here they are. But I digress. Rather Timothy is to be "trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine you have followed" (4:6) and to train himself in godliness (4:7) indicating a proper mixture of sound instruction and proper application. This two-part warning and adhering is what Timothy is to command, and in the commanding to teach, so it may be done correctly.

The other teaching imperative comes at the end of a section dealing with Christians and their relationships in the church. Firstly, there is instruction on how to treat fellow people of differing genders and age; then follows a long section dealing with the proper recompense of older believers--both widows and elders. Paul goes on to instruct how to deal with an elder in persistent sin. Lastly, he deals with those believers who are slaves. Each of these three major categories of humanity (older women, older men, and slaves) are legitimately outside of Timothy's sphere of authority. As a younger man, he would be expected to give due honor to his elders, and there would certainly be no external claim of authority over another person's slave. Because of this, the instruction to Timothy is altered: first he teaches, then he urges. The word urge is interesting in that it is the same word used of the Holy Spirit and translated "helper" (παράκλητος). It is the idea of one who comes along side. Here the influence is not one of direct authority but of gentle prodding, so that the teaching might be carried forth.

It is good to remember that each teaching moments carries with it certain responsibilities for proper technique. To correct bad doctrine, speak with authority and explain why. When dealing with people, speak the truth and gently guide into proper application.