The school year has started and kids across the country are learning their multiplication tables. For some it will be a breeze; for others, groan! But multiplication is a fact of life.
Jesus knew how to multiply. He multiplied 5 loaves of bread and 2 small fish and fed over 5000 people. But his most important multiplication was to pour himself into just 12 men, then send them to make disciples.
Paul also practiced multiplication-and taught it. He invested in his spiritual son Timothy, then instructed him, "The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others" (2 Tim. 2:2 NIV). "Pass it on, Timothy. Multiply yourself."
The Greek word for "men" in this verse is anthropos, which means a human being, whether male or female. The message of the gospel and sound doctrine was to be taught to both men and women, who would be capable of teaching other men and women, who would teach others...
As women, we look at Titus 2:3-5 as the mandate for spiritually mature women to teach women who are younger in the faith. But I believe 2 Timothy 2:2 applies to us as well. A sound theology is the foundation for a lifestyle that will not "malign the word of God" (Titus 2:5 NIV). This theology is the basis of all that we are to teach to other women.
Let's seek out those who will teach us - pastors, elders, other women who are qualified to teach. Let's study God's word so that we will be equipped and qualified to teach others - to practice real multiplication.
