1. Asked questions: Jesus used the Socratic Method. He
led His audience to certain conclusions by asking a lot of
questions. Questions stimulate critical thinking. Asking good questions
makes the audience hungry to find the answers. If you want to teach like
Jesus, ask a lot of questions. Do not reveal the answer immediately. Help your
audience use their own brains.
2.
Created
experiences: It wasn’t
enough for people to just listen to His teachings. Jesus gave instructions and
called them to do what He said.
Jesus’ teaching demanded action. Our
experiences test our faith and teach us more than any sermon ever could. Create
experiences to apply the lesson of asking, “How could I help my listeners actually
live this out?”
3.
Practiced
His teachings: There is no
greater example of a teacher following his own teachings than Jesus. Jesus
didn’t just teach on prayer; He often withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16). Jesus didn’t just teach on loving sinners; He had
dinner with them (Matthew 9:10-12). Jesus lived what He said right
to His death on a cross. The greatest lessons we teach come from our lives, not
our mouths.
4.
Provided
unique illustrations: Jesus often used catchy sayings and plays on words. This
isn’t always apparent in English translations. In the original language, He
made it much easier for his listeners to remember what he said. If you
want to teach like Jesus, craft memorable illustrations. Make the main point
easy to remember. If your people remember the message, they will be able to
take it with them wherever they go. Think of ways to communicate your message
visually.
5.
Shocked
people: Jesus
taught by using outrageous examples, exaggerations, or shocking statements that
got people’s attention. These statements were not all meant to be taken
literally, but they definitely got the point across. Jesus said things
that shocked people to emphasize the truth of His point. If you want to
teach like Jesus, grab people’s attention, and communicate the point clearly.
6.
Spoke
with authority: Other teachers
quoted credible teachers or teachings to borrow authority. Jesus, on the other
hand, boldly declared, “But I tell you, don’t be angry with anyone. If you
are angry with others, you will be judged. And if you insult someone, you will
be judged by the high court. And if you call someone a fool, you will be in
danger of the fire of hell.” (Matthew 5:22, ERV) The crowds were amazed because He
taught as one who had authority, unlike other teachers. Jesus alone could do
this, because He is
the Word. Our authority comes from Christ alone.
7.
Told
stories: Teach like Jesus did by telling lots of stories. Use
examples from everyday life to teach spiritual truth. As you are aware,
Jesus told countless parables. Not only did these stories make his teaching
more memorable. They also connected in much more profound way.
8.
Used
Repetition: Jesus taught the same major themes repeatedly. Sometimes
people need to hear something many times over before it’s fully understood. In
addition, teachings that get repeated get remembered.
If you want to teach like Jesus, repeat. Find the main
point of your message and say it over again. Don’t be afraid to teach on
important subjects more than once a year. Repetition builds emphasis and breeds memory.
“Good teachers know how to bring out the best in students.”
(Charles Kuralt)[i]
[i] Sources used:
·
“6 Teaching Methods Jesus Used That You
Should Too” by Aaron Earls
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