Why Does Scripture Put Such A Strong Admonition On Us?

“Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:16

James says to those who presume to speak for God: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”    

Why does scripture put such a strong admonition on us?

1. Because that is our task, to communicate accurately and humbly what God has said. “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”

I Timothy 4:6

2. Because only the word can correct and heal. Others can be used by God to midwife healing. But, only God, His Holy Spirit and His word are the healing force that He uses to progressively rub out sin and mature us in His righteousness.  Rubbing out sin brings healing. Maturing in righteousness brings Christ likeness. 

2 Timothy 3:10-16

Hebrews 4:12-16

3. Because you are a “first fruits” of what God wants for His people. “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Hebrews 13:7. Cf. I Timothy 6:11-14

4. Because we the leadership of Christ’s church, will be held accountable for how well we represented the mind and the heart of God. “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.”

Hebrews 13:17

Blaise Pascal, “The mind on fire” “So too our faith is divine both in the Gospel, in the apostles, and tradition, but it can be made ridiculous by those who mishandle it.”

Pg. 179