The 5 Ways of JESUS: 5 Days to Knowing Jesus BetterSample

THE WAY OF THE TEACHER

Luke 10:25 says, "An expert in the law of Moses stood up and asked Jesus a question to see what he would say. 'Teacher,' he asked, 'What must I do to have eternal life?'” Jesus’ disciples called him Teacher. People seeking his help or advice called him Teacher. Even religious leaders opposed to Jesus acknowledged he was a teacher.

"Preacher" would also be a part of the larger understanding of Jesus as "Teacher." He proclaimed God’s truth. He was also a public speaker since he spoke to large groups of people. In his public speaking, it was the nature of his teaching that made him unique and made his message powerful.

Jesus taught with authority. People recognized it was different than just somebody talking. Jesus wasn't just a teacher who dispensed knowledge so people could learn things. He addressed needs and gave people answers. He showed how those needs could be met. This is why Jesus’ teaching was so effective, and all these years later, it's still guiding millions of people's lives.

Jesus was a master communicator. He knew how to communicate in all kinds of settings. He wasn't limited by only speaking in a synagogue or to a small group. Jesus knew how to speak to any group at any time. He spoke to curious crowds, and he taught his committed core.

Effective teaching always uses a variety of methods. Diverse people hear in different ways. Jesus understood the need for variety. He would ask questions. In the Gospels, Jesus asked 153 distinct questions. He would make comparisons. In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), he made 142 comparisons.

Jesus would start with the known to help people understand the unknown. Jesus spoke in parables which are essentially short stories that make comparisons to illustrate a truth. In fact, about one-third of all his speaking was done in parables.

But he also used one-liners. Jesus would say shocking statements. He spoke this way because he was trying to engender a reaction. He was trying to get people's attention. Jesus used all these different methods to communicate truth. Jesus established a point of contact with people. He found a way to take something that was familiar and use it to teach.

Effective teaching ultimately always produces action on the part of the listener. It isn't just about sharing information. Jesus always made the application clear and understandable. In the Sermon on the Mount, there is 35% content and 65% application.

Jesus taught in principles so we can apply a principle to various situations or a life event. If you follow the teachings of Jesus, your life will be blessed. It is the best way to live.