Don't Many Be Teachers In The Church (Clip)
Keith Malcomson warns against the dangers of many aspiring teachers in the church, emphasizing the biblical caution found in James about the responsibility and risk of being a teacher.
This sermon focuses on the caution against aspiring to be teachers or instructors in the church, as highlighted in James 3:1. It emphasizes the importance of not seeking many positions of authority within the church to avoid being disqualified from receiving rewards. The speaker delves into the context of James, the half-brother of Jesus, to provide insights on the significance of humility and restraint in leadership roles within the church.
Full Transcript
You can see the New Testament. It deals with these things, lest I be a castaway, disqualified from receiving rewards. James says in James 3 verse 1, My brethren, be not many masters.
The word masters there means teachers or instructors in the church. Don't be many. Can you imagine a man of God, the half brother of Jesus Christ? Mary wasn't a perpetual virgin.
She had several other children by Joseph, and this is one of them. James actually says don't be many masters. Speaking of the church, don't many of you want to be teachers? Who ever heard of such a theology or such a sermon?
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to the issue of many teachers in the church
- Explanation of the term 'masters' as teachers
- Warning about the dangers of being a teacher
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II
- Reference to James 3:1 and its implications
- Discussion of the responsibility teachers carry
- The risk of disqualification from rewards
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III
- Clarification on Jesus' family and Mary’s children
- Addressing common misunderstandings about church teaching
- Encouragement to take teaching roles seriously
Key Quotes
“James says in James 3 verse 1, My brethren, be not many masters.” — Keith Malcomson
“The word masters there means teachers or instructors in the church.” — Keith Malcomson
“Don't many of you want to be teachers? Who ever heard of such a theology or such a sermon?” — Keith Malcomson
Application Points
- Evaluate your motives before aspiring to teach in the church.
- Recognize the serious responsibility and accountability that comes with teaching God's word.
- Approach teaching roles with humility and a desire to serve faithfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does James 3:1 say about teachers?
James 3:1 warns believers not to become many teachers because of the greater judgment and responsibility involved.
Why is being a teacher in the church risky?
Because teachers influence others' faith and conduct, they face stricter judgment and the possibility of being disqualified from rewards.
What does the term 'masters' mean in this context?
'Masters' refers to teachers or instructors within the church community.
Does the sermon address misconceptions about Jesus' family?
Yes, it clarifies that Mary was not a perpetual virgin and had other children, including James.
What is the main takeaway for aspiring teachers?
They should approach teaching with humility and awareness of the serious responsibility it entails.