How Did David Guzik Learn To Teach The Bible?

Q: How did I learn to teach the Bible after my conversion at 16?

A: First of all, I had some amazing examples. I grew up in an environment that emphasized the verse-by-verse teaching of the Bible, particularly in the Calvary Chapel movement. The first Protestant preacher I ever heard was Greg Laurie, and what an amazing work God did through him. I was influenced by guys like Greg Laurie and learned about the ministry and teaching of Pastor Chuck Smith, who was also an amazing example of verse-by-verse exposition.

A lot of it I just learned by example, but I was also a very diligent student. I went to Calvary Chapel Bible school right out of high school, but the program was brief—only about three months. It was a blessing to me, but it wasn't a proper Bible college or seminary education. Most of my theological background is self-taught, and people can judge for themselves whether that's been effective. I believe God has used my work.

God doesn't value an ignorant ministry. There's no praise in being an ignorant pastor or teacher of the Bible. However, there are many ways to get an education. Later in my ministry, I attended Calvary Chapel University and earned an MDiv, which I am grateful for. It's important to have an educated ministry, but the proof is in the pudding more than in a diploma. People want to know if a pastor can handle the scriptures and teach the Bible faithfully. God uses various educational paths, whether it's seminary, online school, or self-teaching. The real proof is in the ministry itself.