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James 3: 1 (NIV)
Not many of you should presume to be
teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more
strictly.
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| While God’s Word is absolutely authoritative, my particular interpretation of it is not.* |
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As
a writer and a teacher, I take James’ warning seriously. I ask God to speak
through me and that my words will be his words. I caution my readers and my
listeners to see for yourselves what the Word says. I beg you never to just accept
my word for what the scripture says. Open your Bible and let the Spirit speak
to you.
And perhaps I haven’t even applied this verse quite properly.
Have I made its meaning too narrow by thinking it’s only my words that will be judged? As a teacher,
is it not my responsibility to practice what I preach? If I am not consistent
and authentic in my walk, how will
others trust my talk? I have allowed
myself to be placed in a position of influence and I will be judged more strictly
if my words or actions cause another
to stumble.
If you are one who leads others in opening the Word of God,
join me in praying for wisdom and humility in the lessons we prepare and
deliver, and in the path we walk. Let us be used by God to bless others and to
glorify him. And please, don’t take my word for it!
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| A life that is not consistent with the lesson taught can undo everything.* |
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