A Word to Teachers
It is hard to imagine another vocation that has a greater and more direct impact on people—especially young people—than teachers. Some teach at home, some in public schools, others in private schools, specialized institutions, universities, apprenticeships, and beyond. And in every instance, the teacher offers to others a way of thinking and living in the world; a vision for life about what is and what ought. This is a monumental responsibility!
We could take this discussion in many directions, but allow me briefly to make one important point: to teach is to lay hands on the souls of those made in the image of God, Almighty. As such, it is our highest responsibility as teachers to shape the souls of students in accord with God’s way in the world—the way that aligns with what is good, true, and beautiful as defined by God.
Whether philosophy, public communications, biology, world literature, or calculus—to teach is to cast a vision for what is and what ought to be in the world. James’ admonition rushes to mind here when he writes, “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness” (James 3:1). Is this limited to preaching, or some sort of theological education? I’m not convinced that it is. To assume an authoritative role in teaching is to assume the responsibility for the claims that are made about the world.
Teachers, we should be prepared to give an account to God for what we taught, how we taught it, and whether it advanced the way of Christ in His world.
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