Remembrance

In the biblical context, remembrance is a significant theme that underscores the importance of recalling God's works, commandments, and promises. The act of remembering is not merely a mental exercise but a spiritual discipline that reinforces faith and obedience.

The Old Testament frequently emphasizes remembrance as a means to maintain covenantal faithfulness. In Deuteronomy 6:12, the Israelites are warned, "Be careful not to forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery." This call to remember is a safeguard against idolatry and disobedience, reminding the people of God's mighty acts and His covenantal love.

The Psalms often serve as a vehicle for remembrance. Psalm 77:11-12 states, "I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds." Here, remembrance is an act of worship, acknowledging God's past faithfulness as a foundation for present trust.

In the New Testament, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as a memorial of His sacrificial death. In 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, Paul recounts Jesus' words: "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me... This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." This ordinance serves as a perpetual reminder of Christ's atoning work and the believer's union with Him.

Teaching

Teaching in the Bible is a divine mandate, integral to the transmission of faith and the formation of a godly community. The responsibility to teach is rooted in the Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:6-7: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage underscores the role of parents and community leaders in imparting God's commandments to the next generation.

The wisdom literature, particularly the Book of Proverbs, highlights the value of teaching and learning. Proverbs 9:9 states, "Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning." Teaching is portrayed as a means of cultivating wisdom and righteousness, essential qualities for living a life pleasing to God.

In the New Testament, Jesus is often referred to as "Teacher" (Rabbi), emphasizing His role in instructing His disciples and the crowds. His teachings, encapsulated in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), provide foundational principles for Christian living. Jesus' Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 further establishes teaching as a core function of the Church: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

The apostolic writings continue this emphasis on teaching. Paul, in his pastoral epistles, instructs Timothy and Titus on the importance of sound doctrine and teaching. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul writes, "And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others." This directive highlights the necessity of faithful transmission of apostolic teaching to ensure the integrity and continuity of the Christian faith.

In summary, remembrance and teaching are intertwined themes in Scripture, both serving to anchor the believer in the truth of God's Word and His redemptive acts throughout history.