Friends, this post was first published in September of 2020.
The idea of “Teaching” in the Great Commission is an ongoing, never ceasing education and edifying of those being discipled. In Greek, the word teaching is written as a present participle indicating it is a continual activity. The word teaching means both imparting ideas (articulating truth), and living the truth being taught (consistent modeling).
All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:18-20
Believers are always teaching, regardless of whether we intend to or not. We teach both through modeling and through structured time. Regardless if the follower of Christ has the Spiritual Gift of teaching or not, they are called to give what they know, what they have experienced to another.
Discipleship is inherently relational. It takes place naturally in the lives of believers. It is more likely to happen in a coffee shop, a company’s break room or around a kitchen table than in a pew.
Discipleship takes time, relationship and effort. There is no biblical alternative. We must hold to the New Testament vision!
The Downing Family
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Amen, thank you for this! God bless you abundantly.