This article was written by Cathy Whitacre and was published in The Gospel Journal. As you know from other posts, Cathy was
passionate about teaching God’s Word, especially in Bible class. This is the conclusion of the three-part series. You can find
more from Cathy by clicking on ‘Cathy’s Corner’ in the subject area on the
right sidebar.
Our
Mission
Each
student is a unique individual with their own learning style and ability, and we
should want all students to be successful. It is not our job as Bible teachers
to ‘fail’ any child. Therefore, don’t set expectations so high that your
students become discouraged and possibly feel they have let you down. Teach
each lesson as it were the first time your class has heard God’s Word. The excitement
and interest you see in their eyes will be very rewarding. Robert Louis
Stevenson once said, “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the
seeds you plant.” Each time we teach a class we are planting The Seed, The
Gospel.
We
are:
1. Leading students to a knowledge and
obedience of our Lord and Savior.
2.
Helping to lay a foundation that will not only build them up in the Lord but
strengthen His church. (1 Corinthians 3:9-11)
3.
Growing His kingdom.
Conclusion
Teaching
Bible class is such an exciting adventure. Each lesson prepared, each class you
walk into, each student whose mind is opened to the truths of God’s Word shows
the blessing of being a member of the Lord’s body and a co-worker with the
Master. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).
It is my earnest prayer that all Bible class teachers, whether you have been teaching for years or just wanting to begin this exciting adventure remember that 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me' (Philippians 4:13).
Click here to read Part 1 or
About
Cathy (at the time of this publication)
Cathy
Whitacre is currently employed at Arlington Christian School. She and her
husband worship with the Fayetteville Church of Christ where she teaches in the
elementary program. She has been teaching for 35 years in all levels. Along
with her daughter and daughter-in-law has conducted Teacher’s Workshops in
Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Georgia, Jamaica and Scotland. Cathy has been
successful in several careers, but found her greatest achievement, along with
her husband, in raising two faithful Christian children. She is also the
grandmother of four and feels Christian education is one of the greatest mission
efforts in which we can be involved.
About Cathy: Updated
Cathy Whitacre (1950-2015) was a Christian, wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend. Cathy and her husband Gerry worshiped with the New Hope Church of Christ, in Bradyville, Tennessee.
Family was one of her crowning joys in life. Married to Gerry for over 47 years they had many years of adventure and love. Her children and grandchildren kept her busy and happy. Everywhere Cathy lived from Ohio, Illinois, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee and more she made dear friends who she considered family.
Cathy had the opportunity to participate in mission work for many years. She had the privilege of speaking at Ladies Days, teaching Vacation Bible Schools, and conducting workshops in Jamaica, Scotland, New Zealand, and in the United States.
Cathy was involved in teaching for over 50 years, from nursery to adults. Cathy believed that Christian Education is one of the greatest mission efforts we can be involved in, and the benefits are eternal.
This article by Cathy Whitacre was originally published in The Gospel Journal. It was in the July 2006 issue. Article is used with permission by
The Gospel Journal.
Scripture taken from the New King James
Version®.
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
Used by permission.
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