A NEWSLETTER FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE GREENWOOD CHURCH OF CHRIST

VOLUME 3 NO. 21                                            July 16, 2006

“TEACHING AND TRAINING”

BY STEVE NIEMEIER

Paul told the Ephesians that children were to obey their parents in the Lord, to honor them and that fathers were to bring their children up in the training and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:1-4). We have heard many lessons of the roles of fathers, mothers and even children. However, how many lessons have we heard on those that are teaching these young children in Bible Classes?

Teaching one to do something has to be repetitive. In a sporting event a coach has the team to practice so that every player will learn the plays and will improve their performance. A high school band will practice hours upon hours to get the steps and notes down to a science so they can act as one when performing. Learning reading, writing and mathematics takes years of study. To teach one these things it takes a dedicated teacher willing to teach at every opportunity. Not just one to fill a space in a classroom to “baby sit” for 45 minutes or so.

Training takes dedication. When one wants to get in shape physically they have to sacrifice and to exercise. Sometimes one will stay up late or get up early to make sure they get their physical exercise. Commitment is needed to “get in shape” and stay in shape physically.

Teaching and training children in Bible Classes takes a teacher willing to teach God's Word and train the children in how to apply God's Word. Public Bible Classes will never replace the responsibilities parents have at home to teach and train. But a congregation that is doing the Lord's work in the way that they should will make sure they are teaching and training the students in their public classes. To do that means that the teachers must be dedicated and committed to teach and train!