Teaching in local churches is essential for developing strong and well-rooted disciples of Christ. Effective teaching is not optional in discipleship; it is foundational. John Wesley strongly believed that making disciples is a process that requires devoted and diligent teaching (Felton, 1997). When Jesus commissioned His disciples, He instructed them to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything He had commanded (Matthew 28:19–20, NIV). During His earthly ministry, Jesus spent approximately three years teaching His disciples the ways of the Kingdom of God before sending them into the world.
The Apostle Paul also highlights teaching as an important ministry within the Church. Teaching appears among the gifts and ministries given to build the body of Christ (Romans 12:6–8; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11–12, NIV). Because of this, local churches must intentionally develop teachers who can faithfully and effectively instruct congregations. This article explores teaching in local churches as a means of forming mature disciples of Jesus Christ and highlights practical methods that can strengthen teaching ministry in congregations.
The gift of teaching helps sustain the body of Christ through spiritual nourishment and guidance (Downs, 1985). Just as the body needs balanced nutrition, believers need balanced biblical teaching. Before His ascension, Jesus instructed Peter to feed His flock, reinforcing the importance of teaching in local churches for spiritual growth.
Scripture also warns that teaching is a serious responsibility. James cautions that not many should become teachers because teachers will be judged more strictly (James 3:1). When teaching is done without proper preparation or spiritual maturity, confusion can result (MacGorman, 1986). Therefore, teachers must steward their calling with wisdom and humility.
Teaching as a Gift
While on earth, teaching was central to Jesus’ ministry. He was frequently addressed as “Teacher” (Matthew 8:19; 9:11; Luke 7:40; 10:25; 11:45). Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to guide and teach His followers. The Holy Spirit continues Christ’s teaching ministry by equipping believers with spiritual gifts, including the gift of teaching (Newton, 2001).
However, possessing the gift of teaching does not automatically guarantee effectiveness. Paul encouraged Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God within him (2 Timothy 1:6). This reminds us that spiritual gifts must be developed through study, practice, and spiritual growth. Teaching in local churches must therefore combine spiritual gifting with intentional skill development.
Understanding the Art of Teaching
Palmer observed that we teach who we are (Palmer, 2007). Teaching reflects the teacher’s character, beliefs, and spiritual maturity. It is difficult to teach what we do not understand or live.
Farrant (2005) suggests that effective teaching requires understanding three things:
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Who we are teaching
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What we are teaching
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How we are teaching
In local churches, teachers often instruct people who have already chosen to follow Christ but are growing in discipleship. Teaching must therefore focus on helping believers obey Christ’s teachings and live them out practically.
Jesus often used parables to communicate complex truths in ways people could easily understand. This reminds church teachers to communicate biblical truth in ways that connect with real life.
Davis (2021) notes that studying Scripture should lead believers to wonder deeply and thoughtfully. Teaching should help learners engage Scripture with curiosity, reflection, and spiritual hunger. Creative teaching approaches help learners grow in independent study and spiritual maturity (Buconyori, 1991). Jesus often taught in ways that encouraged reflection and deeper thinking among His listeners.
How to Teach in Local Churches
The goal of teaching in local churches is to help believers grow into mature followers of Christ. While there is no single correct teaching method, teachers must continuously seek to improve their teaching effectiveness (Farrant, 2005).
Member-Centred Teaching
Member-centred teaching focuses on the spiritual growth of individual believers. Jesus often emphasized personal transformation rather than simply sharing information (Raven, 1929). In Luke 14:25–33, while speaking to a crowd, Jesus addressed the personal cost of discipleship in individual terms.
Teaching should aim to transform thinking, emotions, and behavior. Personality here refers to patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting. Biblical teaching should first impact individuals before influencing families and society.
Peter’s sermon in Acts 2 demonstrates effective teaching. After hearing the message, listeners were deeply convicted and asked what they should do (Acts 2:37). Teaching that engages the listener leads to transformation and response.
Creative Teaching
Creative teaching encourages learners to actively participate in the learning process. It helps develop confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills (Mohammed Bin Ibrahim, 2015).
Jesus used creative teaching methods, such as parables. In Matthew 21:28–32, He used a story about two sons to challenge His audience to reflect on obedience. Creative teaching helps learners move beyond passive listening to active engagement.
Well-organized lesson content also supports creativity (Buconyori, 1991). Teachers should prepare lesson notes and structure content clearly to guide learning effectively.
Repetition as a Teaching Strategy
Repetition is an important learning tool (Saville, 2011). Hearing truth repeatedly helps reinforce understanding and memory. Jesus used repetition frequently. In Luke 15, He told three similar parables to emphasize God’s concern for the lost. In John 21:15–17, Jesus repeatedly asked Peter if he loved Him and instructed him to care for His followers.
Repetition helps learners internalize truth and connect new knowledge with what they already know (Bruner, 2001). Teachers can use repetition by introducing key ideas, teaching them clearly, and reviewing them regularly throughout teaching series.
Luke also uses repetition in describing Paul’s conversion (Acts 9; 22; 26). This repetition highlights the importance of Paul’s transformation (Churchill, 2015).
Teaching with Authority
One distinguishing feature of Jesus’ teaching was authority. The Greek word ἐξουσία refers to the power or right to act. People recognized that Jesus taught with divine authority (Mark 1:21–22; Matthew 7:29; Luke 4:31–32).
Teaching authority comes from faithfulness to Scripture. The Word of God carries its own authority. Paul reminds Timothy that Scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
Expository teaching, where Scripture shapes the message, helps ensure teaching remains grounded in biblical truth.
Believe, Understand, and Live What You Teach
Effective teaching requires personal conviction and understanding. Teachers must live out what they teach. Before sending His disciples into the world, Jesus first formed them as disciples.
Teachers must continue learning and remain open to growth. Engaging with Scripture and scholarly resources deepens understanding. Teachers should also learn from others and pursue continuous development.
Research on informal teaching in rural Catholic parishes led by women shows that modeling, mentoring, and dialogue are powerful teaching tools (English, 1999). Teaching extends beyond formal lessons into daily life. The way teachers live, speak, and think influences others.
Conclusion
Teaching in local churches is vital for developing mature and faithful disciples. Effective teaching goes beyond transferring information. It shapes thinking, emotions, and behavior, ultimately influencing families and society.
Teachers must teach with purpose, focusing on the spiritual growth of believers. Teaching must remain centered on Christ and Scripture. Different church contexts may require different teaching approaches, but the goal remains the same: forming disciples who live out the teachings of Christ.
Teaching in local churches is not about sharing personal opinions but communicating what Christ desires His people to know. Through faithful biblical teaching, churches can raise strong disciples who impact their communities and the world.