Gifts in Leading a Home Group

Even if you do the same job as another person, because your motivational gift is different, you will do it differently from another person. For example, if you were asked to lead a Bible study/prayer group, this is how the different giftings may approach the same job:

A prophet would encourage people to be honest before God and others in the group.

A server would put as priority caring for the practical needs of the group and doing things together.

A teacher would emphasize study and helping people to understand the true message and avoid misunderstandings.

An exhorter would be most interested in the group reaching out to non-Christians and helping people to grow spiritually.

A giver thinks of ways that people can be the answer for each others prayers.

A leader will programme the meeting well so that the goals of the group are achieved.

A carer aims to produce harmony and build up each person's love for each other.

Definitions

One who loves to research and communicate the truth of God's Word.

The special ability that God gives to certain members of the body of Christ to communicate information relevant to the health and ministry of the body and its members in such a way that others will learn.

The Spirit's gift to impart spiritual instruction to others in ways that are both understood and followed, and which promote spiritual growth and unity.

From the NT Greek verb `didasko'. The NT use of the gift refers to one who teaches sound doctrine.

NT Examples

Thomas the apostle, [John 20:24-29]

Luke, (Gospel of Luke and Acts)

Apollos, [Acts 18:24-28; 1 Corinthians 3:4-6]

Characteristics

1. The mind of the body
For the person with the gift of a teacher, logically understanding the Christian faith is paramount. They see themselves as always learners. Teachers are concerned for the truth of the Word of God, and to appeal its truth when presenting it.

Luke wrote his gospel with a concern for the full truth to be made known. [Luke 1:4] A teacher has the most questioning mind of all the motivational giftings. Thomas had the deepest doubts, and had to have proof. [John 20:25]

However, when teachers are convinced of the truth, they will not be easily swayed. Thomas came to a strong belief. "My Lord and my God!" [John 20:28].

Teachers may be slow to accept the viewpoint of others. they can come across as `know it alls', and enter into argumentation and division. A major danger for the Christian teacher is intellectualism, the reliance on human reason rather than the revelation of God.

2. Present their material systematically
Teachers like to present their material systematically, in the form of points that follow in logical order, rather than simply relate a story. For example Luke explained, "I thought it would be good to write an orderly account for you." Luke 1:3b. Teachers usually develop a love for the use of words. They are fond of learning new words and easily develop a large vocabulary.

3. They are researchers.
When teachers hear important statements, they will seek to verify their accuracy. Luke states at the beginning of his gospel that he had carefully studied about the life of Jesus. A teacher will be a great reader. This does not necessarily mean that a person with the gift of teaching is always correct. Apollos was a good teacher but mistaken because there was some information about Jesus that Priscilla and Aquilla had to explain to him. [Acts 18:26]

4. Loves building believers in their understanding
Teachers prefer teaching believers to engaging in evangelism. The teacher cannot imagine anything more important than building up the understanding of the Bible and the Christian faith in the life of a believer. Teachers believe truth has the intrinsic power to produce change in people or situations. They accept without question that, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." [John 8:32]. Because of this teachers may miss out on applying the truth in practical ways.

5. Is more concerned with facts than feelings
Teachers look at life with a certain detachment. In general they tend to be more objective than subjective. Emotions are kept well under control. The teacher suffers the danger of not discerning the feelings of others, and appearing to be distant and not caring of others needs. A person with the gift of teaching can make a good doctor, (eg Luke), diplomat, lawyer, research scientist, or journalist, as well as any kind of teaching position.

Developing The Gift of Teaching

Learn to listen to God's revelation on what you should be teaching. This is a work of the Holy Spirit [John 14:17]

Realise that a commitment to God's will is a condition of a person understanding God's truth. [John 7:17]

Learn to listen to and respect the viewpoint of others, even if you do not agree with it.

Take the opportunities that you can for Bible training.

Avoid concentrating on one particular field of study, as this can lead to imbalance.

Look for the practical applications of what is being taught and be an example of what you are teaching.

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