teacher, Teacher

Definition

A teacher is a person who gives other people new information. Teachers help others to obtain and use both knowledge and skills.

• In the Bible, the word “teacher” is used in a special sense to refer to someone who teaches about God.
• People who learn from a teacher are called “students” or “disciples.”
• In some Bible translations, this term is capitalized (“Teacher”) when it is used as a title for Jesus.

Translation Suggestions

• The usual word for a teacher can be used to translate this term, unless that word is only used for a school teacher.
• Some cultures may have a special title that is used for religious teachers, such as “Sir” or “Rabbi” or “Preacher.”

(See also: disciple, preach)

Bible References

• Ecclesiastes 1:12-15
• Ephesians 4:11-13
• Galatians 6:6-8
• Habakkuk 2:18
• James 3:2
• John 1:37-39
• Luke 6:40
• Matthew 12:38-40

Examples from the Bible stories

• __27:1 One day, an expert in the Jewish law came to Jesus to test him, saying, “Teacher__, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
• __28:1 One day a rich young ruler came up to Jesus and asked him, “Good Teacher__, what must I do to have eternal life?”
• __37:2 After the two days had passed, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s go back to Judea.” “But Teacher__,” the disciples answered, “Just a short time ago the people there wanted to kill you!”
• __38:14 Judas came to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Teacher__,” and kissed him.
• __49:3 Jesus was also a great teacher__, and he spoke with authority because he is the Son of God.

Word Data

• Strong’s: H3384, H3925, G13200, G25670, G35470, G55720