Why do we teach and preach as a part of our relationship to God and what is this intended to accomplish?
Preaching is a type of teaching, usually made as a presentation rather than by interaction. Sometimes it is called proclaiming since this has the same meaning. Jesus frequently used this style of teaching when working with groups (Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:38) and he instructed his apostles to do the same (Mark 3:14; 16:15).
Different forms of teaching have always been important for God’s followers. Teaching was one of the primary jobs of Moses when leading the Israelites (Deuteronomy 4:5, 14). It was also to be a family activity (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). In addition to common family teaching, special rites, memorials and festivals were to be used to provide teachable moments within families (Exodus 12:24-27; Joshua 4: 5-7; 21-24).
Teaching was very important when the church began, because many people were not aware of God’s directions for the church or how it applied to them (Acts 2:41-42; 5:19-21). As members of the church were persecuted or attacked for their new belief, they in turn preached the good news they had learned while in Jerusalem, as they fled to save their lives (Acts 8:4-5).
People at all times have needed the guidance of teaching or preaching about the writings of God’s representatives, so they understand the writings and how they are applied. This was needed for people in ancient times (Acts 8:30-31; 35; 14:14-18) just as much as today.
Today we understand that teaching and preaching about God’s direction for us is not limited by nationality, place or time (Matthew 28:18-20; Revelation 14:6-7). It is limited by our willingness to listen and study (Matthew 12:7; Luke 13:34) since God rarely forces anyone to do anything.
Knowledge has always been passed along primarily by teaching, and a lack of knowledge has always led to great problems (Isaiah 5:13; Hosea 4:6). There is a saying that those who refuse to learn from history are condemned to repeat it. Even today, we see the great lessons of the past being repeated in the “school of hard knocks” for those who choose not to learn from teaching.
Thus, today we preach for those who will listen and learn (II Timothy 4:1-4). It is our own decision what we do with the knowledge presented. Those that teach and preach fulfill their obligation (I Corinthians 9:16-17). It is our own choice as to what we do with the information passed on by those who teach it.
Written by Cliff Copass.