READING: 1 Kings 15:25-16:34, 2 Chronicles 17
“They taught throughout Judah, having the book of the Lord’s instruction with them.”
2 Chronicles 17:9
Education matters. Of course, I say those words as a seminary dean whose job is to train people, so I recognize my bias. But, I also say those words as a pastor whose churches have been built around small groups that focused on fellowship and teaching. I’ve learned that believers who understand the Word, who can articulate what they believe, and who know how to share the gospel are typically much stronger believers—and they learn those truths and processes through education.
King Jehoshaphat apparently understood the value of education, too. He “walked in the former ways of his father David” (2 Chron. 17:2), and the Lord honored that commitment. To help the people understand and live out their faith, though, he sent out other officials and Levites to teach them: “They taught throughout Judah, having the book of the Lord’s instruction with them. They went throughout the towns of Judah and taught the people” (2 Chron. 17:9). While scholars debate what the “book of the Lord’s instruction” was, it’s clear it was some writing that helped the people of God understand and live out their faith. Jehoshaphat thus thought training to be important enough that made sure it happened at a local level.
At a local church level, the closest parallel is probably a small group equipping strategy. It’s at that level that you have opportunities to reflect, ask questions, seek feedback, hear testimonies, and find encouragement. You will likely grow more, and your church will likely be stronger, if your members are trained at a more personal, intimate level.
ACTION STEPS:
- Affirm or re-affirm your commitment to your church’s small group equipping strategy.
- Pray today for your church’s small group leaders.
PRAYER: “Father, I thank You for those who train me through our church’s small groups. Help me to learn and grow.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Kings 17-19