Jesus usually sent His disciples as pairs (Mark 6:7; Luke 10:1; 19:29; 13:2). Why is that? Perhaps it reflected the value of multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). Perhaps it had to do with mutual assistance and encouragement (Ecclesiastes 4:10-12). Whatever the reasons, there is still wisdom in having a partner. Christians who are husband and wife make a great team (Acts 18:26; 1 Corinthians 9:5). If an unmarried couple teams up, make sure there are no occasions for reputations to be questioned. The same applies to a Christian working alone, especially when teaching a person of the opposite sex. Keep the setting free from temptations or accusations (Ephesians 4:27; 1 Timothy 4:12; 5:2; 2 Timothy 2:22). When working as partners, one should be the main teacher or discussion leader, while the other helps the learning process.
- Example: The leader, focused on making an important point, hardly notices a change in the student’s expression. But the partner notices when the student becomes puzzled or seems lost. In a suitable way, the partner enters the conversation and suggests a return to that point for better clarification. The leader, knowing the value of a watchful partner, recognizes the cue and adjusts his teaching to meet the need.
Perhaps the greatest value of taking a partner is training. A less-experienced partner can learn by watching you and gradually taking a more active role. In time, the partner may become the main teacher, training yet another partner.