Teaching the Bible to Change Lives
Priorities for God’s Teacher
January 4, 2012

“For Ezra had set his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel.”         Ezra 7:10

Think of an example of a teacher who demonstrated solid or sloppy priorities.

How would you describe this teacher? What impression did this teacher give to students? How would you describe this teacher’s view of Scripture?

• The belief you hold about the Bible will affect your confidence and the authority upon which you teach.
• The value you place on the Bible will affect the way you use it in the classroom.
• The benefit you see in the Bible will affect your level of enthusiasm when you teach.

Look at the example of Ezra. What can we learn from his life priorities as a teacher?

Priority One:  Determination

Priority Two:  Dedication

Priority Three:  Discipleship

Three action steps I can make this week to prioritize my teaching of the Bible:

1. Prioritize yourself

Be aware of busyness, procrastination, laziness, over-commitment, etc. Strive for improvement in your walk with God, family, friends, health, and hobbies.

2. Prioritize the atmosphere

Be Early. Be Ready. Be welcoming and accepting. Be positive.

3. Prioritize your agenda

Ex. Welcome (15); Worship (10); Word (30-40); Works (10); Witness (15)