Using Non-Biblical Examples in Teaching: Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Using Non-Biblical Examples in Teaching: Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Teachers in Christian contexts often use non-biblical examples to illustrate biblical principles or to make complex concepts more relatable. However, this practice can be fraught with pitfalls. One common issue is the potential for using examples that are not only unhelpful but also misleading or contrary to biblical teachings [1].
The Bible warns against using flattery or deceitful speech to manipulate others, whether in teaching or in other contexts (Ps 5:9; 12:2; 1Th 2:5). Teachers must be cautious not to use examples that could be seen as promoting or condoning such behavior. Furthermore, the use of non-biblical examples can sometimes lead to a watering down of the Gospel message or the introduction of false doctrines [4].
The book of Hebrews critiques those who have not progressed beyond the "first principles" of the Gospel, implying that effective teaching should aim to move learners beyond basic understandings towards a deeper comprehension of God's word (Heb 5:12) [3]. Using non-biblical examples can be counterproductive if it distracts from or dilutes the core message of the Gospel.
Some traditions interpret the Bible as cautioning against eagerness to teach without proper preparation or spiritual maturity. James 3:1 warns against many becoming teachers, emphasizing the need for self-control and wisdom in teaching [5]. The use of non-biblical examples can be particularly problematic if it is not accompanied by a deep understanding of Scripture and a commitment to teaching its truths accurately.
In evaluating the use of non-biblical examples in teaching, it is essential to consider the potential for strife or division. The Bible warns against causing offense or stumbling blocks to others, particularly in the context of teaching (1Co 10:32; 2Co 6:3) [2]. Teachers should be mindful of the risk that non-biblical examples might be perceived as contradicting or undermining biblical teachings.
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Flattery — Saints should not used -- Job 32:21,22. Ministers should not use -- 1Th 2:5. The wicked use, to Others. -- Ps 5:9; 12:2. Themselves. -- Ps 36:2. Hypocrites use, to God. -- Ps 78:36. Those in authority. -- Da 11:34. False prophets and teachers use -- Eze 12:24; Ro 16:18. Wisdom, a preservative against -- Pr 4:5. Worldly advantage obtained by -- Da 11:21,22. Seldom gains respect -- Pr 28:23. Avoid those given to -- Pr 20:19. Danger of -- Pr 7:21-23; 20:5. Punishment of -- Job 17:5; Ps 12:3. Exemplified Woman of Tekoah. -- 2Sa 14:17,20. Absalom. -- 2Sa 15:2-6”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Offence — Occasions of, must arrive -- Mt 18:7. Occasions of, forbidden -- 1Co 10:32; 2Co 6:3. Persecution, a cause of, to mere professors -- Mt 13:21; 24:10; 26:31. The wicked take, at The low station of Christ. -- Isa 53:1-3; Mt 13:54-57. Christ, as the corner-stone. -- Isa 8:14; Ro 9:33; 1Pe 2:8. Christ, as the bread of life. -- Joh 6:58-61. Christ crucified. -- 1Co 1:23; Ga 5:11. The righteousness of faith. -- Ro 9:32. The necessity of inward purity. -- Mt 15:11,12. Blessedness of not taking, at Christ -- Mt 11:6. Saints warned against taking -- Joh 16:1. Saints ”
- Hebrews “Hebrews 5:12 (KJV) — For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Doctrines, False — Destructive to faith -- 2Ti 2:18. Hateful to God -- Re 2:14,15. Unprofitable and vain -- Tit 3:9; Heb 13:9. Should be avoided by Ministers. -- 1Ti 1:4; 6:20. Saints. -- Eph 4:14; Col 2:8. All men. -- Jer 23:16; 29:8. The wicked love -- 2Ti 4:3,4. The wicked given up to believe -- 2Th 2:11. Teachers of Not to be countenanced. -- 2Jo 1:10. Should be avoided. -- Ro 16:17,18. Bring reproach on religion. -- 2Pe 2:2. Speak perverse things. -- Ac 20:30. Attract many. -- 2Pe 2:2. Deceive many. -- Mt 24:5. Shall abound in the latter days. -- 1Ti 4:1. Perver”
- James (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on James 3 (introduction): DANGER OF EAGERNESS TO TEACH, AND OF AN UNBRIDLED TONGUE: TRUE WISDOM SHOWN BY UNCONTENTIOUS MEEKNESS. (Jam. 3:1-18) be not--literally, "become not": taking the office too hastily, and of your own accord. many--The office is a noble one; but few are fit for it. Few govern the tongue well (Jam 3:2), and only such as can govern it are fit for the office; therefore, "teachers" ought not to be many. masters--rather, "teachers." The Jews were especially prone to this presumption. The idea that faith (so called) without works (Jam 2:14-26) wa”