What makes a teacher great?
In our journey of faith, we often encounter teachers who leave a lasting impact on our lives. Great teachers have the ability to inspire, empower, and guide us towards fulfilling our purpose in God’s plan. In this blog, we will explore the qualities that make a teacher truly great, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus and relevant Bible verses.
1. Humility:
A great teacher possesses humility, recognizing that they are not the ultimate source of wisdom. Jesus, the perfect example of humility, declared in Matthew 23:10-12, “Do not be called teachers… But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” A humble teacher understands that their role is to serve and facilitate the growth of their students, pointing them towards God.
2. Love and Compassion:
The hallmark of a great teacher is love and compassion. Jesus’ love for humanity is exemplified in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Great teachers demonstrate a genuine concern for their students, nurturing them with care and kindness, just as Jesus shepherded His disciples.
3. Wisdom and Knowledge:
A great teacher imparts wisdom and knowledge that goes beyond worldly understanding. In Colossians 2:3, it is written, “In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Just as Jesus revealed profound spiritual truths, great teachers lead their students towards a deeper understanding of God’s purpose and truth, enabling them to grow in wisdom and knowledge.
4. Patience and Perseverance:
Great teachers exhibit patience and perseverance, recognizing that growth takes time. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise… but is patient toward you.” They understand that each student has unique needs and abilities, patiently guiding them through challenges and setbacks, just as Jesus patiently nurtured His disciples.
5. Encouragement and Empowerment:
A great teacher encourages and empowers their students to reach their full potential. Philippians 4:13 declares, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” A great teacher instills confidence, reminding students that with God’s strength, they can overcome obstacles and achieve great things aligned with God’s purpose for their lives.
Great teachers, inspired by Jesus and guided by the Holy Scriptures, possess qualities that make them exceptional mentors in our faith journey. Through humility, love, wisdom, patience, and empowerment, they impact lives and shape destinies. Let us aspire to be both students and teachers, embodying these characteristics as we seek to fulfill the purpose God has for our lives. Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to gain knowledge, but to become all that we can be according to God’s divine plan.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella