Instruction, as presented in the Bible, is a fundamental aspect of spiritual growth and moral development. It is through instruction that individuals gain wisdom, understanding, and the ability to live a life that is pleasing to God. The Scriptures emphasize the necessity of instruction in various contexts, including familial, communal, and personal settings.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible underscores the importance of instruction from the earliest books. In the Pentateuch, God commands the Israelites to teach His laws diligently to their children. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 states, "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 highlights the continuous and pervasive nature of instruction in the life of a believer.

Wisdom Literature

The Book of Proverbs is replete with exhortations to seek instruction and wisdom. Proverbs 4:13 advises, "Hold on to instruction; do not let go. Guard it, for it is your life." Here, instruction is equated with life itself, indicating its vital role in guiding one's path. Proverbs 1:7 further asserts, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse links the reverence for God with the pursuit of knowledge, suggesting that true instruction is rooted in a relationship with the Divine.

Role of Parents and Elders

The Bible places a significant responsibility on parents and elders to provide instruction. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This directive emphasizes the nurturing aspect of instruction, which should be administered with love and patience. Similarly, Titus 2:1-8 outlines the role of older men and women in teaching and modeling godly behavior to the younger generation, ensuring the transmission of sound doctrine and virtuous living.

Instruction in the New Testament

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is portrayed as the ultimate teacher, whose instructions are foundational for Christian discipleship. In the Great Commission, Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, "teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). This mandate underscores the centrality of instruction in the mission of the Church.

The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of instruction in his epistles. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 , he writes, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." Here, Scripture itself is presented as the ultimate source of instruction, capable of equipping believers for a life of service and righteousness.

Community and Instruction

The early Christian community is depicted as one devoted to the apostles' teaching. Acts 2:42 states, "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This devotion to instruction was a hallmark of the early Church, fostering unity and spiritual growth among believers.

Conclusion

The importance of instruction in the Bible is evident across both the Old and New Testaments. It is portrayed as essential for personal growth, community development, and the perpetuation of faith across generations. Through diligent instruction, believers are equipped to live lives that honor God and reflect His wisdom and love to the world.