2 Corinthians 1:12-14 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. For we write none other things unto you, that what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end; As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

I include these passages in style because of the line “ye have acknowledged us in part”. I was a substitute for our associate pastor’s devotional when he went on vacation. What a privilege to sub for that great teacher. I am not a teacher, my style is different. I come from a different place and time. A dear friend of his asked about me and if I had more writings. At the time all I had was my own journals. At his encouragement I began these devotionals.

What attracts us to different authors? Is it style or substance? Is it relatable or inspiring? Do we make things plain or do we challenge you? There is a real difference between devotional writers and book authors. We do not delve into subjects ad nauseam. These are not meant to be a filling meal, but more of an appetizer. The real work, your private studies, will often be taken up with those book authors. They have their place and time.

I would like to make one point on this matter. The larger the volume of work, the larger the opportunity for error. I have witnessed a lifetime of good work ignore because of one lapse in judgment. None of us are perfect and the occasional misstep does not mean the author is moving in the wrong direction.

The first and last authority on any matter is the bible as revealed by the Holy Spirit, not man.

2 Peter 2:1 … false teachers … swift destruction.

I took out the clutter to hi-lite the issue. Teachers are held to a higher standard than the rest of us. They are responsible for the spiritual wellbeing of others. It is easy to abuse that privilege and God will not tolerate men who abuse His children.

Luke 12:48b For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

Did I quote this appropriately or out of context? Let us look at the preceding verse 47 “And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.” Sounds right but is it sound doctrine?

Luke 12:42-43 And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

The contextual matter is all stewards of His house in whatever we are called to perform. Teachers are not singled out as such, yet they are included within the requirements of stewardship. Remember this, I am not a teacher, I have a prophetic gift. Whatever I say must be validated by scripture.

This brings the subject of substitute teachers into the forefront. They take on the form of instructors outside the scrutiny of your elders. This is the age of the internet and one quick search can render thousands of results from a variety of resources. It is the user who decides what resources are reliable or not.

When you use an internet resource, do you know if the author is accountable to any authority? Being held accountable is critical when it comes to spiritual matters.