In my experience in the classroom, I have observed many gifted teachers who are able to connect and communicate with children and youth in amazing ways. But, along with those gifts, it’s important to have the ability to communicate the right things well—right doctrine. And though it may seem strange to some, teaching young children right doctrine well actually requires you have a better grasp of those doctrines. How so?
It takes as much or more understanding of a biblical doctrine to teach it to children than it does to teach it to adults. If you understand a thing well, you can usually make it plain for ordinary people and children. But if you are fuzzy in your own understanding, you will generally be overly complex in your explanation.
A great hindrance to the salvation and the growth of our children is the weakness of our own grasp of the full range of biblical truth and the unity of the whole counsel of God. I am overwhelmed at what children can absorb and retain when they are repeatedly and systematically and progressively instructed in the great doctrines of the Bible.
(John Piper, “Let the Children Come to Me,” ©2015 Desiring God Foundation. Website: desiringGod.org)
Therefore, as you consider your plans for the coming months, how about increasing your grasp of biblical truth and the whole counsel of God so that you will be better prepared to teach the children and students in your care. A great place to start is by reading a good systematic theology. At CDG our favorite is…
Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine by Wayne Grudem Although this book can look intimidating at 1,000+ pages, it is structured into well-defined topics and is written in a manner that the “ordinary” lay-person can understand. However, if this book feels too overwhelming, try the closely related, summarized version: Bible Doctrine: Essential Teachings of the Christian Faith
