Rabbi, Teacher

Scripture Reading — John 1:35-39; 13:12-16

They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?”
— John 1:38

We learn from a variety of people in our lives—parents, friends, relatives, teachers, mentors, and more. Writers, entertainers, and leaders of all kinds can influence us too. My favorite teachers or mentors have often been my hardest ones.

Without question, Jesus is the greatest teacher of all. As Colossians 2:3 puts it, “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” are hidden in him. Jesus’ teaching amazed crowds, and his teachings in the Bible continue to amaze and challenge us today. In addition, Jesus’ teaching isn’t easy—it demands our all.

Jesus’ disciples called him “Rabbi,” the traditional title in their culture for a person who was so respected as a teacher of God’s law that people would follow him and try to learn how to be like him. Following a rabbi involved imitation, learning how to think and act like that person. Jesus said, “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher” (Luke 6:40). And in 1 John 2:6 we read, “Whoever claims to live in [Jesus] must live as Jesus did.”

How do we live as Jesus did? How can we follow him without being crushed by the weight of the expectations involved?

The answer, in part, is in the many names of Jesus we have been reflecting on. He is the true vine, our head, our mediator, our good shepherd, the one who serves, and so much more—and through his Spirit he give us the strength and ability to live as he calls us to.

Rabbi Jesus, teach us, by your Spirit, how to be like you, living as you did. In your name, Amen.

Written by: Lora Copley