John 9:34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Who can teach us about Jesus? Surely they need some formal education. Perhaps even to have gone to Bible College. Obviously they need to be living free from sin. Of course, they must posses some form of communications skill. It goes without saying they must hold some position within the church with a grand title. Never let us forget they need to also be dressed smartly in a clean white suit or even a robe.
Its difficult to see these conditions in the Bible though. But over time we have built up a set of criteria that qualifies people to be able to teach. Don't get me wrong there are certainly qualities expected of those 'overseeing'. I also hold the pulpit in high regard and wouldn't throw it open to any old nut-job to spout their latest theory. But let's not get too religious either.
The pharisees showed themselves unteachable when they refused to listen to the man born blind in John ?? To be born blind they considered he must have been born a 'total sinner' and hence how could they ever learn from him. Far too often we limit God's ability to use others to teach us by placing restrictions on who is qualified to educate us. But its just being like the pharisees.
Let's stay continually open for God to use all manner of people to show us the character of Jesus, His amazing power, His limitless love, the truth of His word and the extent of His grace. Lord, don't let me close my ears to the message you are saying simply because I don't like the look of the messenger you are using. Help me daily to kill my judgemental and self righteous spirit.
On YouVersion
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