4 Characteristics of Genuine Christian Teachers

In Philippians 1:15-17, Paul explains two types of preachers:

“It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.”

If we're looking for a good church, these are the qualities we should seek in a pastor:

1. He teaches Scripture accurately. 

He preaches unpopular passages as well as popular ones.

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2

2. He's a faithful husband and diligent father.

First Timothy 3:1-7 explains he must be “above reproach, faithful to his wife.… He must manage his own family well.”

3. He's godly.

First Timothy 3:1-7 says Christian leaders must be “temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”

4. He doesn't live extravagantly.

First Timothy 3:1-7 explains he's “not a lover of money.” And Philippians (above) explains he's not motivated by “selfish ambition.”

It was true in Paul's day and in ours: we must be careful about the people we trust to teach us about Christ. 

✞✞✞  

For more insights, see 3 Methods of False Teachers and 3 Things Itching Ears Want to Hear.

💙 Free Subscription to 1-Minute Bible Love Notes. Have a one-minute devotion like this one delivered to your email each weekday.

💙 10 Reasons You'll Love the Book Wisdom for Life. A collection of 100 one-minute devotions from Psalms and Proverbs and a great gift for people who love God's Word.

💙 Full Description of the Book Lies in Disguise. A much-needed book to uncover half-truths that misuse Scripture and weaken Christian faith.

 

 

BLN