Devotional: Do the I's Determine What You Teach?

We live in a culture that is increasingly consumer focused. The "I's" seem to drive the decision making of most people. When someone says, "I want . . .," others race to respond. As you read this Devotional: Do the "I's" Determine What You Teach? consider whether your teaching is driven by the "I's" in your group or driven by the desire to honor God in your teaching.

There is a plethora of books, topics, authors, and other resources competing for the small group Bible study audience. While not all resources are unhealthy, often the topic or current cultural itch fuels the "I want . . ." members of your group to cry out for something that may or may not produce spiritual maturity.  Paul spoke to this issue in 2 Timothy:

For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new. They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. (2 Timothy 4:3-4, HCSB)

So how do we balance meeting needs while still teaching the Bible?

• Make sure any content you teach is based upon sound doctrine.
• Don't compromise biblical truth or intentional discipleship just to attract a crowd.
• Look for ways to help adults see how sound, biblical truth is relevant to helping them live the abundant life.

As the group leader you have to ask, "Do the I's Determine What I teach?" You then have to decide if you are teaching to please itching ears or to honor God. I pray that, as you lead your group, you will be able to meet needs while teaching sound doctrine. If some adults walk away because their ears haven't been "scratched," remain strong and committed to teaching the Bible with excellence.

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