The concept of remembering and adhering to the teachings of Jesus Christ is a central theme in the New Testament. This reminder serves as a guiding principle for believers, encouraging them to live according to the precepts and example set by Christ. The teachings of Jesus encompass a wide range of moral, ethical, and spiritual instructions that are foundational to Christian life and practice.

Scriptural Basis

The New Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of recalling and practicing the teachings of Jesus. In John 14:26, Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, who will aid believers in remembering His words: "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you." This assurance highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in helping Christians internalize and apply Christ's teachings.

The Apostle Paul also underscores the necessity of holding fast to the teachings of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:2, he commends the Corinthians for maintaining the traditions he delivered to them: "I commend you for remembering me in everything and for maintaining the traditions, just as I passed them on to you." This passage reflects the early church's commitment to preserving and practicing the teachings of Jesus as conveyed through the apostles.

Practical Application

The reminder of Christ's teachings is not merely an intellectual exercise but a call to action. Believers are encouraged to embody the principles of love, forgiveness, humility, and service that Jesus exemplified. In Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This directive underscores the responsibility of Christians to not only remember but also disseminate Christ's teachings.

Challenges and Encouragement

While the call to remember and live by Christ's teachings is clear, believers often face challenges in doing so. The pressures of daily life, cultural influences, and personal struggles can lead to forgetfulness or neglect of these teachings. However, Scripture provides encouragement and resources to overcome these obstacles. In Philippians 4:9, Paul writes, "Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." This assurance of divine presence and peace serves as motivation for believers to persist in their commitment to Christ's teachings.

Role of the Church

The church plays a vital role in reminding believers of Christ's teachings. Through preaching, teaching, and communal worship, the church reinforces the message of the Gospel and provides a supportive environment for spiritual growth. In Ephesians 4:11-13, Paul describes the purpose of church leadership: "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ." This passage highlights the church's role in nurturing believers and helping them remember and apply Christ's teachings.

Conclusion

The reminder of Christ's teachings is a continual process that involves both individual and communal efforts. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the support of the church, and personal dedication, believers are called to live out the teachings of Jesus in every aspect of their lives, thereby fulfilling their role as His disciples.