by James Gunter
For several weeks now, I have been studying the book of Ezra. He is a wonderful example of someone who was wholly committed to Bible study. Not only did he teach, but he also studied and applied to his own life the very same principles he taught others. This not only made him an incredible teacher, but a credible teacher as well. He led by example. The key verse in the book of Ezra is a challenge to all who are called to teach God's Word.
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel. - Ezra 7:10 (NKJV)
Do you notice any key qualities for any teacher? First, a teacher must prepare his/her heart just as Ezra did. And we have a directive as we prepare our hearts: we are to seek the Law of the Lord. But, it doesn't stop there. Secondly, a teacher is to “do it” – to do what God’s Word says to do. Doing it is real and personal. Lastly, a teacher is to teach these same truths to others. Israel was Ezra's audience, and he invested himself in teaching them wholeheartedly. Who is your audience? Is it family? Friends? Acquaintances? Neighbors? Co-workers?
A wonderful example of Ezra’s character is found in chapter 9. Even though we don’t see any indications that Ezra was guilty, notice his reaction upon hearing that the Israelites had intermarried with pagans (a practice that was prohibited according to Deuteronomy 7:1-5 and Exodus 34:11-16.)
So when I heard this thing, I tore my garment and my robe, and plucked out some of the hair of my head and beard, and sat down astonished. - Ezra 9:3 (NKJV)
Ezra is grieved that his students have turned their backs on God’s instructions. He realizes that their sin displeases a holy God, and he is distressed by it. Later that evening, we see an amazing action on Ezra’s part.
I arose from my fasting; and having torn my garment and my robe, I fell on my knees and spread out my hands to the Lord my God. And I said; “O my God, I am too ashamed and humiliated to lift up my face to You, my God; for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads, and our guilt has grown up to the heavens......” - Ezra 9:5-6 (NKJV)
Ezra included himself in this prayer of confession. He says “our iniquities.” Would we be so humble as to include ourselves in a prayer of confession regarding our Sunday School class or our church? Remember, all who are believers make up the Body of Christ. Are you part of the body?
