How to Teach like Jesus

We are all teachers in one way or another. Some of us teach Sunday school or Bible studies, others are full-time home schooling mothers. Even if you are not a teacher in a formal capacity, you teach your children every day through your actions. Jesus is the ultimate example of a wonderful teacher. Reading the Gospels gives us insight into the methods and strategies He used to reach His people. Christian education began with Christ's earthly ministry and teachings. He taught with authority (Matthew 7:29) and so we should follow his example.

Jesus adapted Himself to all situations. He used questions, parables, storytelling, object lessons and life experiences to convey truth to his audience. We can and should do these same things when teaching our children. When your child comes to you with a question, do not always give her a direct answer. Sometimes it is best to respond to a question with a question. This is a great way to get your child to think for herself and see the purpose behind the rule.

Jesus' purpose in teaching was always to glorify His Father (John 17). He did not simply want His hearers to change the outside of their lives, He desired a change in the inner man. Why do you want your children to obey you? Of course, we all desire our children to obey us because we know what is best for them. Additionally, we should want our children to learn to obey us so that they will also learn to obey God. Jesus cared about attitudes and motivations, not just outward acts of compliance.

Jesus cared for the individual person, even when he was dealing with a large group of people. When he was on his way to Jairus' house, the Bible says there was a multitude of people around Him. However, when the woman with the issue of blood touched Him and was healed, He immediately stopped his journey and sought her out to speak with her. Likewise, we need to look beyond our audience (Sunday school class, our own children) and see the needs of the individual person.

Jesus made learning fun, in a basic sense. Over 35% of all of Jesus' teaching was done through parables. Simply defined, a parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. He was a master story teller. Follow His example and use stories to teach the child or children you influence.

We have a great privilege and responsibility to teach our children the things of God. Let's use Jesus' example and do it right!