Being Teachable
By Jake Bunn, Men’s Ministries Board Member

How can we “Guard This Man?” This is the Men’s Ministries theme for this new year, taken from 1 Kings 20:39.  Last month, our director, W.A. Mills, discussed a strategy the Berean church exemplified with their relentless approach to the Scriptures. They received, researched, and responded to the Word of God. This ensured the proper dissecting and application of biblical doctrine (the body of essential theological truths that define and describe the biblical message).¹ Simply put, doctrine is scriptural teaching on theological truths. If you ignore this crucial investigation, then it can lead to some bad doctrines.²

Along with the careful examination of doctrine, I want to supplement an additional spiritual strategy, while growing in the discipleship process that reflects Acts 2:42. That strategy is to have a teachable spirit. Luke 11:1 says, “One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Many of us can remember, before sporting events, the “Lord’s prayer” being prefaced before the tip off, kick off, or whatever the game may be. What if that disciple (unnamed), who clearly grew up in a “prayer culture,” did not ask the question? If this disciple was a “know it all,” then we do not have access to the most well-known and revered prayer today. It is a difficult task to “Guard this Man” when we think we have arrived. Jesus unlocks the best revelations to those with a “teachable spirit.”

Becoming a lifelong learner means that you do not graduate with age or accomplishments. The biggest enemy to a teachable spirit is pride, and it must be uprooted to see true growth continue in the life of the disciple.³ My prayer is that today you would examine your heart and allow the Lord to speak to you about being teachable. It may unlock something you would come to revere.

1. 1. Bible Study Tools, https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/doctrine/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2019.

   2. Charisma Magazine, https://www.charismamag.com/blogs/fire-in-my-bones/20325-6-really-bad-charismatic-doctrines-we-should-retire. Accessed 12 Jan 2019.

   3. The Gospel Coalition, https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/10-temptations-facing-elders-wife/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2019.