James 3:1

"Let Not Many of You Become Teachers"

Apparently, there were those in James' day who rushed to teach (James 3:1). They longed for the prominent position in which it would put them. Certainly that had been a problem of the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 23:1-12). For some, it was carried over into the church (Romans 2:17-25; 1 Timothy 1:3-7). The problem may have been encouraged by the somewhat informal organization of their worship services (1 Corinthians 14:26-40).

The desire to teach is a good desire that should not be discouraged (Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Timothy 2:2). Instead, we should discourage a seeking after personal glory. We should also beware of failing to be adequately prepared to teach (Hebrews 5:12-14; 1 Timothy 4:12-16). God has stricter standards for those who teach because their words can cause others to believe a false gospel (Galatians 1:6-9; Romans 16:17-18). Bad teaching can also lead others into the practice of error (Galatians 2:11-13). Such would surely bring down a heavy judgment upon us (Matthew 18:6-7).

Woods does well to remind us that there is a great joy for those who properly teach. To the Philippians Paul said, "Therefore, my beloved and longed for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved" (1 Peter 4:1; compare 2 Corinthians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:18-20). John said, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth" (3 John 1:4).