“Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching…and preaching the Gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.” Matthew 9:35 (NKJV)
In many cultures, although respected, teachers are not really given the honour they deserve. Jesus was no exception. He was called many names, insulted, wrongfully accused and eventually killed. Like most teachers, love for those He taught drove Him to continue doing so.
Jesus’ final words to us in Matthew 28:19-20 was that we, likewise, teach all nations to observe all His commands and to baptise them in the Name of The Father, The Son and the Holy Ghost. So, what are the things we are to teach others?
- How to pray. Jesus gave us a formula in Matthew 6:5-13. Today, we refer to a part of this as ‘The Lord’s Prayer’. Using a parable, He also taught us to pray consistently in Luke 18:1-8.
- The importance of gratitude. After healing ten lepers in Luke 17:12-19, only one returned to say “thanks.” Moreover, before performing the miracles of feeding the multitudes with very little, Jesus gave thanks to His Father. At the Last Supper, He gave thanks before sharing with His disciples, the bread and wine symbolic of His body and blood.
- The importance of having faith in God. In each miracle He performed, Jesus told those He healed, delivered and forgave, that it was their faith which had made it possible.
- To be compassionate. In the parables Jesus taught of the Good Samaritan, The Prodigal Son, and The Compassionate King (Matthew 18:23-35). He taught us by example as He, moved with compassion, performed the healings and deliverances of the multitude who followed Him into the desert, cities and villages.
- How to love. Our Master Teacher left His position in Heaven and gave His life for the saints and the sinners so we can be redeemed. He has given us The Great Commission to go and do the same, teach and spread love. Amen.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, You have taught us so much, both by Your words and actions. We commit our lives to You afresh today. Help us to teach like You taught, in sincerity and love. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: Matthew 9:36; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 148:7-14; Revelation 19:11-21; Nehemiah 9:1-37
