Does the effectiveness of teaching affect salvation?

At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. Acts 14:1 (NIV2011)

How was it that the people in Iconium were saved?

Well, we know from the broader context of Scripture they were saved because God saved them. They were saved because God predestined them before the foundation of the earth (Ephesians 1). They did not choose God, God chose them (John 15.16). “It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.”  Romans 9:16 (NIV2011)

We know they were saved because they choose. The Bible says that whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10.13). God is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3.9). Joshua said, “choose you this day” (Joshua 24.14).

While you are scratching your head (or preparing to argue with me) about those two, I want to invite you to see a third thing. This one comes directly out of this verse. The people at Iconium were saved because Paul and Barnabas spoke effectively. Paul and Barnabas were effective Bible teachers. The skill by which they went about their speaking made a difference. If they had been poor communicators, fewer would have believed. Because of their effectiveness, many believed.

I have been in many growing churches. They vary tremendously in many things. Their style is different. Their theology is different. Their location is different. But here is one thing they have in common: an effective communicator stands in the pulpit.

I have seen many growing Bible Study Groups. They vary in many ways. But, here is one thing they have in common: they are led by an effective Bible teacher.

If you would like to be even more effective in your Bible teaching, you might check out this video series called Teach Like Jesus.

You might also take a free look at Good Questions Have Groups Talking. I do all I can to give you the tools you need to be an effective Bible Teacher. Eternity depends on it.