Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. (Ecc. 12:9)
Pastor Tom closed our tense conversation with the phrase, “If you err, err on the side of grace.” A simple phrase, but one that I have never forgotten. The scheduled and private conversation had been in response to a conflict in our youth group. My mother had driven me to Pastor Tom’s office on a non-youth group night. Throughout the conversation, Pastor’s words had been precise—not vindictive but truthful—and had illuminated a miscommunication that ultimately caused the frustration between myself, another youth member, and the pastor.
Pastor Tom was a wise teacher. He sifted through the story details to attend to the present; however, he was also interested in imparting knowledge to help build up the future. A wise teacher who imparts knowledge helps build a stronger future by setting in place tools, phrases, and lessons that overcome challenges should a trial that is similar in kind be broached again.
While not everyone will have the gift of wisdom in teaching, there will be some in the church body. Search for them, find them, and listen to them carefully. Witness how such teachers approach trials, conflict, and influences. Watch how such teachers benefit the church body around them. Wise teachers are a gift to the church body. Seek out such teachers, use their wisdom, and employ the knowledge they impart.
Seek out a wise teacher in the local church; learn from them.
Paul Zeller is an adult discipleship pastor who enjoys reading history and science-fiction—looking for theological movements in stories. He believes that faithful imagination opens doors for Jesus.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
