How can we apply the concept of "teach them the right way" today? Setting the Scene “Teach them the statutes and laws, and show them the way to live and the work they must do.” – Exodus 18:20 Jethro’s counsel to Moses highlights a timeless rhythm: God’s truth flows into His people so it can flow out to others. Teaching “the right way” is not merely an Old Testament administrative tip; it is a standing mandate that pulses through all of Scripture. What “teach them the right way” Meant Then • Moses was to pass along God-given statutes verbatim, not personal opinion. • He had to model the prescribed way of life in front of the people. • The outcome expected: a community that could walk in obedience without constant hand-holding. Principles That Carry Over 1. God owns the curriculum. • Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “These words I am commanding you today are to be on your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children.” 2. The teacher’s life validates the lesson. • 1 Timothy 4:16: “Pay close attention to your life and your teaching.” 3. Multiplication, not bottlenecking, is the goal. • 2 Timothy 2:2: “Entrust to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others also.” Practical Ways to Live It Out Today Home • Establish a family Scripture time—short, consistent, and age-appropriate. • Tie biblical principles to everyday choices (money, media, friendships). • Memorize verses together; celebrate progress. Church • Train small-group leaders to handle the Word accurately (Titus 2:1). • Pair older believers with younger ones for life-on-life mentoring. • Keep children’s and youth curricula anchored in whole-Bible truth, not moralism. Workplace & Community • Lead with integrity that springs from Scripture (Colossians 3:23-24). • Offer a lunchtime Bible study or book-by-book reading group. • Use social media to share concise, context-faithful insights rather than reactive opinions. Digital World • Curate and recommend solid teaching podcasts, avoiding shallow hot-takes (Ephesians 4:15). • Record brief video devotionals that explain a passage, then apply it to a real-life scenario. • Maintain accountability: invite a mature believer to review your online content for accuracy. Guardrails to Keep the Teaching Sound • Stay text-driven: let the passage set the agenda. • Cross-check interpretations with the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). • Beware of adding burdens Jesus never placed on His people (Matthew 11:28-30). • Submit to local church oversight—no lone-ranger teachers (Hebrews 13:17). Encouragement to Persevere Teaching the right way is marathon work. Results may be slow, but God’s Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). Keep sowing truth, keep modeling obedience, and trust the Spirit to ignite lasting transformation in every life you touch. |
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