Strong spirits: favorite teacher
A great teacher speaks with authority.
Growing up, did you have a favorite teacher? Why were they your favorite? When I have asked that question of people, usual answers include: they really helped me; they were fun; they gave me a love for learning; they were real, and really cared about me. All great reasons.
I believe - and many would agree - that Jesus was the greatest teacher who ever lived. Probably for all of those reasons listed and others you might add. And for one very particular reason, unique to him: He spoke with authority. The people were amazed by him. "They were all amazed by the way he taught, because he spoke with authority." (Luke 4:32). And he didn't just teach with authority. He acted with authority- healing people, casting out demons, taking on the religious establishment. He had authority. He was, after all, the son of God.
And what did he teach? Much of what is recorded is simple life lessons that would apply to those who heard. But by far the most important thing he taught was about the Kingdom of God, and what it takes to be in that Kingdom. Ultimately, that is why he came - to build a bridge back to God for an abundant life in this world, and a joy-filled life for eternity in the next.
I would encourage you to read what Jesus taught. You can find it in the Bible, and in particular the first four books of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke. John). He is amazing! He is authoritative! Spending time listening to him will change you forever, for good. Need a Bible? Need help? Let me know...
Besides serving as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church, Gary Schwerin is the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - to see them all, subscribe to our daily email.
