Repetitious Learning

Michael Gremillion

Fairfield Baptist Church

Sermon • Submitted 3 months ago • Presented 3 months ago

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How do we learn?

### 1. **Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (LSB)**

*"These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall speak of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as phylacteries between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."*

**Explanation**: This passage stresses the importance of continually teaching God's commandments to children throughout daily life, making His Word a constant focus in every aspect of home and family.

---

### 2. **Deuteronomy 4:9-10 (LSB)**

*"Only keep yourself and keep your soul carefully, lest you forget the things which your eyes have seen and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons. Remember the day you stood before Yahweh your God at Horeb, when Yahweh said to me, 'Assemble the people to Me, that I may let them hear My words so they may learn to fear Me all the days they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children.' "*

**Explanation**: This passage highlights the importance of continually remembering and teaching God's laws to future generations, ensuring that Yahweh's Word is never forgotten.

---

### 3. **Joshua 1:8 (LSB)**

*"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way successful, and then you will be prosperous."*

**Explanation**: Yahweh instructs Joshua to constantly meditate on His Word. Reflecting on it day and night ensures that it becomes deeply ingrained, leading to a life of obedience and success.

---

### 4. **Proverbs 22:6 (LSB)**

*"Train up a child according to his way; even when he is old he will not depart from it."*

**Explanation**: This verse emphasizes the importance of early and consistent training in Godly ways, promising that what is learned in youth will shape a lifetime of faithfulness.

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### 5. **Psalm 119:11 (LSB)**

*"Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You."*

**Explanation**: Memorizing and treasuring God's Word in the heart, through repetition, helps prevent sin and fosters a closer relationship with Yahweh.

---

### 6. **Colossians 3:16 (LSB)**

*"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with gratefulness in your hearts to God."*

**Explanation**: Repetition through teaching, singing, and admonishing allows the word of Christ to dwell richly among believers, encouraging constant reflection and learning.

---

### 7. **Ephesians 6:4 (LSB)**

*"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."*

**Explanation**: Parents are called to continually discipline and instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. This consistent training ensures a firm foundation of faith and character.

---

### 8. **2 Timothy 3:16-17 (LSB)**

*"All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be equipped, having been thoroughly equipped for every good work."*

**Explanation**: This passage underscores the ongoing usefulness of Scripture for teaching, correction, and training. Repetition through engagement with the Word ensures believers are equipped for Godly living.

---

### 9. **Isaiah 28:10 (LSB)**

*"For He says, ‘Order on order, order on order, line on line, line on line, a little here, a little there.’"*

**Explanation**: This verse captures the mocking attitude of scoffers who ridicule the repetitious nature of God's instruction. They see the "line upon line" method as tedious, but this is Yahweh’s way of teaching—little by little, allowing understanding to grow gradually.

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### 10. **Isaiah 28:13 (LSB)**

*"So the word of Yahweh to them will be, ‘Order on order, order on order, line on line, line on line, a little here, a little there,’ that they may go and stumble backward, be broken, snared, and taken captive."*

**Explanation**: Though the scoffers mock Yahweh's method, His Word remains the same. The repetitive, orderly way of learning will continue to be how His truth is taught and internalized. Those who reject this will stumble, while those who embrace it will find true understanding. Yahweh’s form of learning endures, even when mocked.

---

This list now uses the **LSB** translation and includes **Isaiah 28:13** to show that Yahweh’s method of repetition will remain constant, despite the scoffers. Does this version meet your needs?

Did Jesus disagree with Repetitous learning?

Jesus' teaching on repetitious prayers, particularly in **Matthew 6:7-8**, is not in contradiction with the concept of repetitive learning or instruction in God's Word. Instead, it addresses a specific type of mindless, empty repetition in prayer, where the focus is on saying many words rather than communicating sincerely with God. Let's break this down:

### **Matthew 6:7-8 (LSB)**

*"And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him."*

### Key Differences:

1. **Meaningless Repetition vs. Purposeful Repetition**:

- In **Matthew 6:7-8**, Jesus condemns *meaningless* repetition, where people think they will be heard just by repeating words over and over without faith or understanding.

- On the other hand, **repetition in teaching God's Word** (as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 6:6-9) has a purpose: to build understanding, to internalize truth, and to train both children and adults in God’s ways. This type of repetition is thoughtful and intentional, not mindless.

2. **Heart vs. Formula**:

- Jesus' criticism in **Matthew 6** focuses on prayer that lacks heart and relationship. He encourages believers to pray with sincerity and trust, knowing that God already knows their needs.

- In contrast, the repetition of God’s Word is about shaping the heart and mind, bringing people closer to God through continuous engagement with His teachings. It’s not a formula for earning favor, but a practice for growing in wisdom and holiness.

3. **Cultural Context**:

- Jesus refers to the practice of the *Gentiles* (pagans), who often used repeated phrases and mantras in their prayers, thinking that the sheer volume of words would attract the attention of their gods.

- God’s instruction for teaching and memorizing His Word involves meaningful, thoughtful reflection and repetition—very different from the mindless babble Jesus is warning against.

### Conclusion:

Jesus' teaching against meaningless repetition in prayer is a call for sincerity and genuine faith in communication with God. It does not contradict the idea of repetitively learning Scripture, which is designed to deepen understanding and relationship with God over time.

The key is the *intent* behind the repetition:

- Prayer should be heartfelt and sincere.

- Learning God’s Word through repetition is purposeful and aimed at spiritual growth.

Jesus used the repetitous formula

While He warned against *meaningless* repetition in prayer, He often used purposeful repetition as a method of teaching His disciples and followers. Here are a few examples of how Jesus employed repetition to reinforce key lessons and truths:

### 1. **Repeated Use of Parables**:

Jesus frequently taught through parables, and often the themes were repeated. Many of His parables focused on similar ideas, such as the Kingdom of God, forgiveness, and the nature of discipleship. By using different stories to convey the same essential truths, Jesus allowed His followers to absorb lessons from multiple angles. Some examples include:

- The **Parable of the Lost Sheep**, **Lost Coin**, and **Prodigal Son** (Luke 15) all emphasize God's joy over the repentance of sinners.

- The **Parable of the Mustard Seed** and **Leaven** (Matthew 13:31-33) both convey the idea that the Kingdom of God starts small but grows significantly.

**Repetition of themes in parables** helped His listeners understand and internalize the truths about God’s Kingdom in a variety of contexts.

---

### 2. **Jesus Repeated Key Phrases and Ideas**:

- **“The first will be last, and the last first”**: Jesus repeatedly emphasized this concept, teaching about humility and servanthood (Matthew 19:30, 20:16; Mark 10:31). He used this phrase multiple times in different settings to underscore the reversal of worldly values in the Kingdom of God.

- **“Do not be afraid”**: Jesus frequently encouraged His disciples not to fear, knowing that fear was a common struggle for them. He used this phrase in different situations (Matthew 10:28, Mark 6:50, John 14:27), reminding them to trust in Him rather than in their circumstances.

- **“He who has ears to hear, let him hear”**: Jesus often used this phrase (Matthew 11:15, 13:9, Mark 4:23), calling for attentive, reflective listening—a way to drive home the importance of really paying attention to His teachings.

---

### 3. **Repetition in Prayer**:

Although Jesus warned against *meaningless* repetition in prayer, He Himself practiced **purposeful, persistent prayer**, teaching that repetition in seeking God is a mark of faithfulness:

- **The Parable of the Persistent Widow** (Luke 18:1-8) teaches about the importance of persistence in prayer. The widow kept coming to the judge with her request, and eventually, she was granted justice because of her persistence. Jesus taught this to encourage His followers to **keep praying consistently** and not give up.

- **Gethsemane Prayer**: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus Himself prayed three times with the same request, showing that earnest and heartfelt repetition in prayer is valuable when seeking God's will (Matthew 26:44).

---

### 4. **Teaching by Repeating Actions**:

Jesus often repeated His actions to reinforce a lesson. For example:

- **Feeding the Multitudes**: Jesus fed large crowds on two different occasions—feeding 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21) and then 4,000 (Matthew 15:32-39). The repetition of this miracle taught the disciples about God’s provision and compassion, reinforcing their trust in Him.

- **Healing on the Sabbath**: Jesus healed multiple times on the Sabbath (Luke 6:6-10, John 5:1-18), teaching the Pharisees and His followers that mercy and compassion are more important than rigid legalism.

---

### 5. **Repetition in Commandments**:

Jesus reiterated the greatest commandments, emphasizing love for God and love for neighbor:

- **“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind”** and **“Love your neighbor as yourself”** (Matthew 22:37-40). By repeating these foundational commandments in various contexts, He showed that they encapsulate the entire law and the prophets. This repetition made it clear to His disciples what the core of God's will was.

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### Conclusion:

Jesus consistently used **repetition in His teaching**, whether through repeated parables, phrases, actions, or commandments. His use of repetition was purposeful, helping His followers to internalize the lessons of the Kingdom of God. He understood that learning and transformation often happen gradually, through consistent exposure to truth.

While He discouraged meaningless repetition in prayer, **Jesus modeled and encouraged meaningful repetition** in learning and applying God’s truth. This shows that repetition is a valuable tool for teaching, understanding, and spiritual growth.

Other examples

Yes, Peter, Paul, and John also use repetition as a method of teaching and reinforcing important truths. Here are some notable examples:

### **Peter**

1. **Repetition in Exhortations**:

- **2 Peter 1:12-15 (LSB)**:

*"Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them and have been established in the truth which is present with you. And I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, as also our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will also be diligent that at any time after my departure you will be able to call these things to mind."*

**Explanation**: Peter emphasizes the importance of reminding his readers of foundational truths. He acknowledges that while they are already familiar with these truths, repetition helps reinforce their significance and ensures that they are remembered even after his departure.

### **Paul**

1. **Repeated Teachings on Core Doctrines**:

- **Romans 6:1-4 (LSB)**:

*"What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life."*

**Explanation**: Paul frequently reiterates the doctrine of being united with Christ in His death and resurrection. By repeating this teaching, he reinforces the believer's new identity and the transformation that comes with it.

2. **Repetitive Instructions for Church Conduct**:

- **1 Thessalonians 5:12-22 (LSB)**:

*"But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil."*

**Explanation**: Paul provides a series of repeated and practical exhortations for Christian living. These instructions cover a broad range of behaviors and attitudes, underscoring their importance through repetition.

### **John**

1. **Repetition in Key Themes**:

- **1 John 4:7-8 (LSB)**:

*"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love."*

**Explanation**: John frequently returns to the theme of love as central to the Christian faith. He repeats the idea that love is essential for knowing God and reflects God’s nature. This repetition serves to deeply ingrain the importance of love in the lives of believers.

2. **Repetitive Warnings Against False Teachers**:

- **2 John 1:7 (LSB)**:

*"For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist."*

**Explanation**: John repeatedly warns about the dangers of false teachers and deceivers who deny key truths about Jesus. By emphasizing this issue in multiple letters, he reinforces the importance of doctrinal purity.

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### Conclusion

In the writings of Peter, Paul, and John, **repetition is used effectively to reinforce core teachings, exhortations, and warnings**. This method helps ensure that important truths are remembered and applied in the lives of believers, reflecting a deep understanding of how learning and spiritual growth often require reinforcement over time.

Here are more detailed explanations and examples of how Peter, Paul, and John use repetition in their teachings:

### **Peter**

1. **Repetition in Exhortations**:

- **2 Peter 1:12-15 (LSB)**:

**Detailed Explanation**: Peter acknowledges that his audience is already familiar with the truths he is teaching, yet he emphasizes the importance of continual reminders. This repetition is meant to reinforce these truths and ensure that they are firmly established in the readers' hearts. The repetition serves to keep the foundational teachings fresh and relevant, especially in light of Peter’s impending departure.

### **Paul**

1. **Repeated Teachings on Core Doctrines**:

- **Romans 6:1-4 (LSB)**:

**Detailed Explanation**: Paul reiterates the doctrine of identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, a central theme in his teaching. He returns to this concept in various letters (e.g., Galatians 2:20, Colossians 2:12) to emphasize its significance for Christian identity and conduct. The repetition of this teaching is intended to deeply embed the truth in believers' understanding and behavior.

2. **Repetitive Instructions for Church Conduct**:

- **1 Thessalonians 5:12-22 (LSB)**:

**Detailed Explanation**: Paul provides a series of practical exhortations in this passage. The repetition of themes such as encouragement, patience, and prayer emphasizes their importance in the Christian life. By listing these instructions, Paul reinforces their value and ensures that they are applied consistently.

### **John**

1. **Repetition in Key Themes**:

- **1 John 4:7-8 (LSB)**:

*"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love."*

**Detailed Explanation**: John repeatedly emphasizes the theme of love throughout his letters. He returns to the idea that love is central to Christian identity and reflects God’s nature. This repetition is crucial for reinforcing the command to love one another and understanding its implications for the believer’s relationship with God.

2. **Repetitive Warnings Against False Teachers**:

- **2 John 1:7 (LSB)**:

*"For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist."*

**Detailed Explanation**: John warns against false teachers who deny key doctrines about Jesus. This warning is repeated in multiple letters (e.g., 1 John 2:18-22, 1 John 4:1-3) to stress the seriousness of the issue. By repeating these warnings, John underscores the importance of doctrinal purity and vigilance against deception.

---

### Conclusion

Peter, Paul, and John all use repetition effectively to reinforce essential teachings, instructions, and warnings. This method ensures that important truths are deeply ingrained in the believers' minds and hearts. Whether through doctrinal reinforcement, practical exhortations, or warnings against false teachings, repetition plays a crucial role in guiding and nurturing the faith of the early Christian communities.

How the world shapes your thinking.

Applying the concept of repetition in teaching and learning, as seen in biblical teachings, to modern-day media—especially AI-driven media—can provide insights into how repetition is used to shape consumer behavior and influence. Here’s how this concept overlays with contemporary AI aspects targeting consumers:

### **1. AI-Driven Repetition in Marketing**

**Personalized Advertising**:

- **Concept**: AI algorithms analyze consumer behavior, preferences, and demographics to deliver personalized ads. Repetitive exposure to tailored ads reinforces brand recognition and consumer preference.

- **Example**: If you’ve searched for hiking gear, AI might repeatedly show you ads for outdoor equipment, reinforcing the idea that you need or want those products.

**Retargeting**:

- **Concept**: Retargeting involves showing ads to users who have previously interacted with a brand or website. This repetition increases the likelihood of conversion by keeping the brand top of mind.

- **Example**: If you visit an e-commerce site but don’t make a purchase, you might see ads for that site on other platforms you visit, reminding you of the products you viewed.

### **2. AI and Behavioral Conditioning**

**Content Recommendations**:

- **Concept**: Streaming services and social media platforms use AI to recommend content based on previous interactions. Repetitive exposure to similar content helps reinforce user preferences and keeps them engaged.

- **Example**: If you frequently watch videos about cooking, the platform will suggest more cooking videos, reinforcing your interest and keeping you engaged with the platform.

**A/B Testing**:

- **Concept**: AI uses A/B testing to repeatedly present different versions of ads, emails, or web pages to determine which performs better. This repetition helps refine marketing strategies and increase effectiveness.

- **Example**: Two versions of an email campaign might be tested with different subject lines. AI analyzes which version gets more opens and conversions, and the more successful version is used repeatedly.

### **3. Geographical and Temporal Targeting**

**Localized Advertising**:

- **Concept**: AI analyzes geographical data to serve localized ads. Repetition of these ads in specific regions helps build brand recognition and relevance.

- **Example**: A coffee shop chain might target ads for a new location specifically to people in the nearby area, showing the ad repeatedly to build local awareness.

**Time-Based Targeting**:

- **Concept**: AI schedules ads to appear at times when users are most likely to engage. Repetitive exposure at optimal times increases the likelihood of consumer action.

- **Example**: Ads for a morning coffee might be scheduled to appear early in the day when users are starting their day, while ads for evening relaxation products might appear later in the evening.

### **4. Repetition and Consumer Habits**

**Habit Formation**:

- **Concept**: AI-driven repetition helps in forming consumer habits by consistently presenting the same brand or product options. This can lead to habitual purchasing behavior.

- **Example**: A subscription service that reminds you regularly to renew your subscription or offers special deals might lead you to develop a habit of using that service.

**Brand Loyalty**:

- **Concept**: Through repeated exposure to a brand's messaging and offers, AI helps build brand loyalty. Repetition reinforces positive associations and customer preferences.

- **Example**: Loyalty programs that remind you of rewards and benefits through frequent notifications keep the brand at the forefront of your mind and encourage continued engagement.

### **5. Ethical Considerations and Transparency**

**Transparency in AI**:

- **Concept**: Understanding how AI uses repetition to influence behavior is crucial for ethical considerations. Transparency in how data is collected and used can help consumers make informed decisions.

- **Example**: Companies should disclose how they use AI to target consumers and allow users to control the extent of data collection and ad personalization.

**Avoiding Manipulation**:

- **Concept**: While repetition can be effective, it's important to avoid manipulative practices that exploit consumer vulnerabilities. Ethical AI use involves respecting consumer autonomy and avoiding overreach.

- **Example**: Ensuring that ads do not pressure or deceive consumers but rather provide clear and honest information.

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### Conclusion

In modern media, particularly with AI-driven approaches, repetition plays a significant role in shaping consumer behavior and reinforcing brand loyalty. AI enables personalized and geographically targeted advertising, time-based ad placement, and behavioral conditioning through repetitive content exposure. Understanding these mechanisms helps us appreciate the impact of media on our choices and the importance of ethical considerations in AI use.

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