1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 Be An Example

You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. [1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 NASB]

I was once told, "First, watch. Then do. Then teach." That statement summarizes what Paul said to the Thessalonian church. He told the Corinthians;

Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. [1 Corinthians 11:1 NASB]

We are also told;

Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith. [Hebrews 13:7 NASB]

Please allow me to repeat what he said, "considering the result of their conduct." In other words, be careful who you imitate. Don't follow a preacher just because he is famous and on T.V. Don't imitate a pastor just because he is a pastor, or a leader just because he is a leader. As far as you know, he may be less sanctified than you are, and maybe he should be imitating you instead.

Look at the fruit of their lives. Are souls being won? Are believers being encouraged? Is he of good report in the world as well as in the church? Is there evidence of sin in his life? Is he secretive, overbearing, easy to anger?

You should see the fruit of the Spirit evident in every part of his life;

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. [Galatians 5:22-23 NASB]

It takes a great deal of confidence to put yourself out there as an example of Christian living. Yet, that is something we should all aspire to. Paul told Titus;

in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us. [Titus 2:7-8 NASB]

Find a godly leader, and watch his life. Emulate his behavior as you learn how to walk the Christian life. As you come to know Jesus more deeply, and more personally, then you can imitate Him. Then be an example to other believers who are looking for a role model.

Father, I pray that I may be a good example to other believers and to non-believers. I pray for grace that Your light may shine, so that when people look at me, they will see You.