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LIKE A DEDICATED TEACHER
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20
1 Thessalonians 2:8

2 Timothy 1:11-12

 

“…not the gospel of God only,

but also our own souls…”

 

LIKE A DEDICATED TEACHER
 
Another way that Paul depicted the relationship he shared with the Thessalonians was that of a teacher. By definition, a preacher is one who teaches God’s Word (2 Tim 1:11). But beyond being one who just instructs the salient points of the Gospel, Paul and his companions were willing to have imparted to them their own souls, because they were dear to them.
 
The picture here is not just of any ordinary teacher, but a dedicated caring teacher who pours his whole heart and soul to ensure the students get the best education possible. It is not just about conveying the information and providing the tools for the student to get the grades, but to put in the time and effort to teach, from his heart, such that the student is well rounded, that he fully understands the content of the lesson and realises that same passion the teacher has for the subject at hand.
 
For Paul, the subject matter was the Gospel. His purpose was not just that they knew intellectually what the Gospel was about, but that he put before them his whole life. He poured his heart and soul into presenting the Gospel to them in both his speech and his conduct. He was willing to bare his whole life before them, with the hope that they would truly understand, embrace and live out the Gospel. Therefore, he would “very gladly spend and be spent for you” (2 Cor 12:15).
 
Through the ages, servants of God have followed in the footsteps of Paul and poured out their souls as teachers of the Gospel. Countless missionaries have left their homes, travelled far and wide, hazarding their lives, all for the sake of bringing the Gospel to those who need it. The church today continues to stand because of the dedication and sacrifice of so many who have gone before us. How about you? Are you dedicated to the cause of Christ? Will you be willing to give up personal comforts and commit yourself to witness for Christ?
 
THOUGHT: Have I been blessed by dedicated spiritual teachers in my life?
PRAYER: Father, may Thou use me as Thy faithful servant, dedicated and committed to the Gospel of Christ.

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