The Teacher Uses Law and Gospel

Abstract

Mark Bitter’s essay, presented at the 1988 Central Teachers’ Conference, explores how Christian educators can faithfully apply Law and Gospel in teaching, discipline, and counseling. Drawing on Scripture and personal experience, Bitter emphasizes that Law and Gospel are not tools to be “balanced” or dosed for effect, but divine truths that convict and comfort. He warns against moralizing, conditional forgiveness, and confusing righteousness with outward behavior. Through vivid examples—from classroom devotions to counseling sessions—he illustrates how teachers can guide students from guilt to grace, always pointing to Christ’s active and passive obedience. Bitter encourages educators to rely on the Holy Spirit’s power, not their own skill, and to present Jesus in all his humility, majesty, and love. The essay is a passionate call to teach with theological clarity and pastoral compassion, trusting that God will accomplish his purpose through his Word. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).