In the two preceding articles, attention has been drawn to the reality that children will be like their parents and that Christians will be like those who teach them, shepherd them and mentor them spiritually. There’s a reason for that, as stated by Jesus in Luke 6:40—“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.”
Let us approach the final thought on this passage by looking at the One who made this statement. The One who taught this principle is our Master Teacher. Nathanael, Nicodemus and the disciples called Him, “Rabbi,” (John 1:49; 3:2; 4:31; 9:2; 11:8); Mary Magdalene called Him, “Rabboni” (John 20:16); His disciples and Martha called Him, “Teacher” (John 11:28; Mark 4:38); and the Rich Young Ruler called Him, “Good Teacher” (Matt. 19:16). Jesus is our Good Teacher, and as such, when we are perfectly trained by Him, we will be like Him! Oh, what a thought!
When we are perfectly trained by Jesus, we can love God like Jesus did! With His suffering just hours away, Jesus said to His disciples, “That the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave Me commandment, so I do” (John 14:31). How do we know that Jesus loved His Father? It was manifest through His obedient spirit. Consider these sentiments of our Savior—“I always do those things that please Him” (John 8:29); “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God” (Heb. 10:9); “Not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42). Have you been trained by Jesus? Do you love God like He did?
When we are perfectly trained by Jesus, we can love Scripture like Jesus did! On a daily basis Jesus pointed listeners to the Word of God. “Have you not read…?” (Matt. 19:4). It’s obvious He had read! “He expounded to them in all the Scriptures” (Luke 24:27). It’s obvious He knew them! “The Scriptures must be fulfilled” (Mark 14:49). It’s obvious He put the Word of God first in His life. Have you been trained by Jesus? Do you love Scripture like He did?
When we are perfectly trained by Jesus, we can have compassion on others like Jesus did (Matt. 9:36)! We can learn to devote our lives to prayer like Jesus did (Luke 6:12)! We can learn to care for the lost like Jesus did (Luke 15:4-7; 19:10)!
Are you like Jesus? Are you becoming more like Him every day? Are you being perfectly trained by Jesus through His word? As His disciple, you will never be above your Teacher, but you can be like Him. May we all strive fervently for that goal!