Teach

Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
James 3:1

I think one of the reasons why I have been so quiet lately... is that I fear I teach something improper, and lead you all to stumble. Because, when I think about it...how little do we know of His Word!

For instance, when we say... "God loves you". How many verses can you think of that qualify that statement?

But, Richard...Even though I cannot state a verse. I KNOW it..because..

My personal experience...

I do not mean to disqualify personal experience, but anyone can think of any number of reasons why God loves me because of X and Y. Also to counter, I can go on and say "God hates me" because of A and B.

Because X told me...

What about appeals to authority? Pastor Scott said this... Elder Chan said this... ...whatever Paul's title is...said this. They are human, they make mistakes (as do I). Furthermore, if they can offer this opinion...surely, they can substantiate their claim with reference to Scripture? And if they cannot... what good is their opinion (mine included)?

Hence... my inability to speak as of late. I know not Scripture to answer your question, so I prefer to be cautious... and not say anything at all.

lol, but Richard...your post is on teaching.

And rightly so! I do not know if this new cautious stance will be that helpful. We all make mistakes, and to be super cautious and not do anything for fear of screwing up cannot possibly be from God. It shows a lack of trust in Him, as well as a desire not to glorify God, but to avoid screwing up.

But on the flip side, how often do people examine the faith to see if they are in it? (2 Cor 13:5)

Especially our teachers at MCAC. Do you approach the post with fear and trembling, measuring each word to ensure that you teach proper Scripture? Or are we lackadaisical in our teaching, thanking God that we have gotten through another pointless Sunday School lesson?