7 Mandates to Remember When Preaching the Word of God

David said God’s word is a lamp unto his feet and a light unto his path (Psalm 119:105). Sometimes when you are walking on a path, the light shows you when you are about to take a misstep. When that happens, you are thankful for the light because it has helped you avoid an incident. God’s word is that light and when he realigns your steps, you can be encouraged because you have avoided an incident.

I love that Paul instructs Timothy to be patient. I know sometimes in instructing, especially if you feel like the person is not getting it or they keep repeating the same mistakes, you can get impatient. The reason patience is important is because you are committed to whoever you are instructing for the long haul. When you care about the long-term growth and development of those you are instructing, you will be more patient.

If you feel the temptation to get impatient, just remember how patient Jesus is with you. That should immediately change your attitude.

The last thing Paul says is to be careful in how you instruct others. There are three things I would recommend you be careful with.

Be careful with your opinions.

Be careful with your attitudes.

Be careful with your interpretations.

One thing I have learned over the years of teaching is what you say matters. Because you are in front of the room, people will listen to what you say. For this reason, you need extra care to guard the things you are saying. Recognize people may be swayed by your opinion on a matter, so don’t always be quick to share your opinion. Also, be careful with your attitude about certain people or topics. Again, your influence may move others, so be careful how you wield it. Lastly, make sure your understanding and interpretation of Scripture are on point. Sometimes with Scripture, there may be valid differences of opinion. Acknowledge those and give people information, but don’t be so dogmatic. Especially if people have a different point of view on the gray matters of Scripture.

Overall, your job as the preacher, teacher, or sharer is to care for those you are helping. When you have a shepherd’s heart, you will always do what is best for those you are watching over.

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Clarence L. Haynes Jr. is a dynamic speaker, Bible teacher, and co-founder of The Bible Study Club, dedicated to helping people live with purpose and clarity. In addition to his ministry work, Clarence has spent the last 13 years as a trusted financial educator, guiding thousands of people across the country—including employees at many Fortune 500 companies—toward lasting financial wellness. His unique ability to blend practical wisdom with spiritual insight equips people to thrive in every area of life.

He is the author of The Pursuit of Purpose, which helps readers understand how God leads them into his will, and the author of The Pursuit of Victory: How To Conquer Your Greatest Challenges and Win In Your Christian Life. Clarence is also committed to helping 10,000 people learn how to study the Bible and has released his first course, Bible Study Basics, to achieve that goal. To learn more about his ministry and resources, please visit clarencehaynes.com.