Lecture on Redemptive Spiritual Gifts: The Teacher

Introduction

• The lecture continues a study on the redemptive spiritual gifts found in Romans 12:6-8.
• Focus on the teacher gift, the third gift listed in this passage.
• Emphasizes the principle of responsibility, which can be selective.
• Importance of validating truth and love for knowledge.

Understanding the Teacher Gift

• Teachers need to validate truth for themselves and enjoy knowledge.
• Not everyone who loves teaching or knowledge is necessarily gifted as a teacher.
• The teacher's motivation is different from others who might also love knowledge.
• Example: The speaker’s husband embodies the teacher gift.

Characteristics of the Teacher

• Concerned with truth, accuracy, and precision in all information (biblical and otherwise).
• Detail-oriented, articulate, good writers.
• Process decisions slowly and safely, avoiding impulsiveness.
• Often frustrate visionaries due to their slower pace.
• Have a non-judgmental and emotionally safe presence.
• Represented by the Levites (priests) who reconcile people back to God.
• Prefer traditional over modern influences, e.g., music, church styles.

Behavioral Traits

• May love tradition and classic styles over contemporary ones.
• Value reason, accuracy, and balance in life.
• Loyal and steady in commitments.
• Able to create comprehensive, detailed documents.
• Seen as safe due to patience and non-judgmental attitude.
• Humor tends to be observational or based on wordplay.

Challenges and Weaknesses

• Struggle with selective responsibility and procrastination on practical matters.
• May be too lenient or patient with wrongdoing.
• Can be tight-fisted with money due to a lack of trust in provision.
• Intimacy with God and spontaneous prayer may be challenging.
• May struggle with poor boundaries and planning for the future.

Maturity and Growth

• Mature teachers have a deep relationship with truth and can access hidden truths in God’s word.
• Carnal teachers may be stuck in traditions and rituals, resembling Pharisees.
• They are encouraged to be flexible and open to change.

Biblical Examples

• Luke, Daniel, Isaiah, Levi, Samuel.

The Birthright of a Teacher

• Know God's deep truth and experience Him personally.
• Creation day associated: Third day (separation of sea from dry land).
• Represents drawing nutrients from God's word and bringing life to seeds.

Encouragement and Prayer

• Encouragement for those who identify with the teacher gift to embrace and utilize it.
• A prayer for understanding and flexibility, for eyes to see and reconcile others to God.

Conclusion

• Teachers have a unique ability to bring people back to God and ensure doctrinal integrity.
• Their role is vital in maintaining the truth within the church and providing new insights into God’s word.