I’m sure you can think of a teacher who has helped you grow in your walk with God. Maybe it was a Sunday School teacher who had a way of making the lessons come alive, or a pastor who proclaimed the message with the kind of conviction that spoke to your heart, or a Christian author whose books took you deeper in your understanding of the Bible. We’re reminded that Bible Study is something we do together, with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are fellow learners, fellow disciples, fellow students. The Lord places different people within the church to provide sound biblical instruction, equipping us to live out our faith, challenging us to follow Christ in this world. In this lesson we look at the example of Ezra to find qualities of a godly teacher.
Think back to your school days: elementary, high school, or college.
Do you remember a favorite teacher or professor? Someone who didn’t just teach information but sparked a passion for learning in you? Maybe they had a way of making the subject come alive, answering your questions with patience and inspiring you to grow, not just as a student but as a person.
I can think of several such teachers in my life, but especially my Bible and Theology professors in college. At the time, I didn’t appreciate every assignment or exam, but looking back, I’m deeply thankful for their heart to help us grow as students of the Word.
A Voice from the Past That Still Teaches
Last week, I came across a recording of a message given by one of my former professors at a leadership conference. Hearing his voice again brought back vivid memories, especially one classroom discussion that was so engaging, we lost track of time. At the end of class, our professor walked away humming, clearly filled with joy.
What struck me most was his passion. Even though he had been teaching that same class for years, his love for the Scriptures hadn’t faded. It was contagious and that excitement made us want to learn more.
That kind of teacher leaves a lasting impression.
Teachers Who Shape Our Faith
I’m sure you can think of someone who’s helped you grow in your walk with God. Maybe it wasn’t a professor: maybe it was a Sunday School teacher, a pastor, or even a Christian author whose writing deepened your understanding of the Bible.
As we’ve been studying how to approach Scripture more faithfully, it’s important to recognize that Bible study isn’t something we do in isolation. God designed us to learn together, as fellow students and disciples in the Body of Christ. And He raises up gifted teachers to equip us for His service.
The Biblical Role of Teachers
Scripture highlights the importance of godly teachers throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
Ephesians 4:11–12
“And He gave some as… pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.”
God continues to raise up pastor-teachers to build up His Church today.
Acts 18:25
“This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching accurately the things concerning Jesus…”
Ezra: A Model of a Godly Teacher
We see perhaps one of the most powerful examples of godly teaching in Nehemiah 8 through the priest and scribe Ezra.
The people of Israel had returned from Babylonian captivity. They had rebuilt the city, the temple, and the wall. But Ezra knew that their faith needed rebuilding most of all. So he gathered the people and did what godly teachers do best:
1. Godly Teachers Elevate the Word of God
In Nehemiah 8:1–5, Ezra brings out the Book of the Law and reads it to a crowd gathered in the square. A wooden platform had been built, not to exalt the speaker, but to elevate the Word.
“Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people… and all the people stood.” (Nehemiah 8:5)
They stood not to honor Ezra, but to show reverence for God’s Word.
A faithful teacher isn’t seeking to elevate themselves, but to lift high the Scriptures. It’s not about personality or position. It’s about God speaking through His Word.
2. Godly Teachers Explain the Meaning of the Word
Nehemiah 8:7–8 tells us that a group of Levites moved among the people to help them understand the reading.
“They read from the book… clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.”
This was more than reading aloud. It was teaching. Explaining. Clarifying. Possibly even translating. These leaders made the message understandable.
True Bible teaching helps us connect our ears to our minds, and then to our hearts.
3. Godly Teachers Inspire Us to Live the Word
Verse 6 says:
“Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, ‘Amen, Amen,’ lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.”
Ezra’s teaching didn’t just fill minds. It led to worship. God’s Word should stir our affections and lead to obedience.
Pastor and author Warren Wiersbe once said:
“Holy joy will be oil to the wheels of our obedience. To the believer without joy, the will of God is punishment; but to the believer happy in the Lord, the will of God is nourishment.”
Good teachers lead us not just to know more, but to love more and live more faithfully.
What Kind of Teachers Are You Listening To?
There are countless voices out there including preachers, podcasters, YouTubers, authors. But not all are trustworthy.
When seeking spiritual guidance, look for teachers who:
- Elevate God’s Word (not themselves)
- Explain Scripture clearly and accurately
- Inspire obedience and worship
Be discerning.
A clever outline or compelling story isn’t enough. Faithfulness to Scripture must be the foundation.
The Role of Commentaries in Bible Study
This week, we’re also learning to use Bible commentaries in our study. A commentary helps explain the meaning of Scripture, offering background, context, and application.
But here’s a key reminder:
Don’t turn to a commentary first.
Start by reading the passage for yourself. Make observations. Ask questions. Look at context. Explore key words. Then, use the commentary to supplement what you’ve already discovered.
Let teachers assist you, but don’t skip your own Bible study process.
Final Thought: Ezra’s Example Still Speaks Today
Ezra 7:10 tells us:
“For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the Lord and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel.”
That’s the heart of a godly teacher:
- Study the Word
- Live the Word
- Teach the Word
May we seek out teachers like Ezra. And may we all strive to become teachers like Ezra in our own circles of influence.
This Week’s Challenge:
📖 Go back to John 6:25–58
Use a couple of good commentaries (print, online, or in a study Bible) to explore the passage more deeply. Jot down your insights. Ask questions. Let the voices of faithful teachers help you better understand and apply the Word.
If you need help finding resources, ask your pastor or check out your church library. Let’s grow together!
What teachers have made an impact on your life and faith? Share in the comments below! 👇