Be Thou An Example

TEXT: 1 TIMOTHY 4:12; 1 THESSALONIANS 2:1-11

The Lord Jesus is set forth as a perfect example for the Church in purity, humility, quiet resignation to God's will and in suffering wrongfully without retaliation. In like manner, every true follower of Christ has been called unto radiant and exemplary living in all spheres of life - at home, in the neighbourhood, at work, and in the church of God. Such exemplary living is an index of true discipleship and means by which the world glorifies God in us.

In practical terms, our texts above reveal the attitude, and disposition expected of a Christian. He must serve as a pattern for imitation and inspiration to other members in the church and among unbelievers. The realms of such exemplary living are in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith and in purity.

To start with, a true child of God must be an example to believers in word. He/she does not speak, critical, angry, idle words. He/she is never accused of murmuring, frivolity, talkativeness, boasting, flattery, lying or worse still, swearing. A Christian is a man or woman of unquestionable integrity. His/her yea is yea and his/her nay, nay.

Conversation relates to the general lifestyle of a believer. The attitudes, conducts and actions of a true child of God is devoid of greediness, disobedience, unruly behaviours, contention, indulgence and talebearing, etc.

However, as beneficiaries of God's matchless love and grace at salvation, having been cleansed from all selfish tendencies, a Christian's heart is exercised unto unfeigned love of the brethren, extended even to unbelievers.

In addition to these virtues is his/her fervency of spirit. A Christian is grave, sober, prayerful and heaven-minded. His/her affections are wholly set on things above and he/she constantly expects the Lord's return.

Moreover, a true child of God is a man or woman of faith. His/her quiet repose in God in times of crises is an inspiration to others. Nevertheless, the total picture of the Christian is holiness. He or she is pure in his dealings at home, at work and in the church. He/she does not indulge in secret sins.

As believers, we must watch against bad examples as they can make others fall from their steadfastness in the Lord and shrink in faith. We should know that God's judgment awaits those who live in guile, deceit and gross misconduct as opposed to His commandments.

Dear Christians, I urge you "to live lives worthy of God, who called us into His own kingdom and the glorious blessedness into which true believers will enter after Christ's return" (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12; Amplified Bible). We are the living Bible this sinful world will ever read.

"And if you call upon Him (God) as your Father Who judges each one impartially according to what he or she does, then you should conduct yourself with true reverence throughout the time of your temporary residence on earth, whether long or short" (1 Peter 1:17).

"...Christ has left us an example that we should follow in His footsteps" (1 Peter 2:21). Thus, we are to live as ambassadors of Christ, so God's appeal to the world through us would be accepted and not ridiculed (2 Corinthians 5:20).

"Be imitators of God as well-beloved children imitate their father ... For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light] ... And try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord [let your life be a constant proof of what is most acceptable to God]" (Ephesians 5:1,8,10).

Be thou an example! "Lead a life worthy of the divine calling to which you have been called [with behaviour that is a credit to the summons to God's service...]. Let your life lovingly express truth ... and let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, even Jesus Christ [the Messiah, the Anointed one]" (Ephesians 4:1,15).

Finally, dear brethren, I urge you all to be thou an example! In whatever you say or do, know whom you represent and have believed in. The world is watching; let others see Jesus in you.

Now to Him who, by the power that is at work within us, is able to do superabundantly, far over and above all that we ask or think, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21).

May the grace and peace of the Lord be with you. God bless! Feel free to share and leave your comments.

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