We are all examples. Yet, I doubt many would say I am a Christian example that others should follow. Even the sound of that statement sounds bold and egocentric. However, we are to be examples for others to follow. Our ultimate example is Jesus, but He does not walk the earth anymore. People watch people!
In I Thessalonians 1:1, Paul begins a letter to the church at Thessalonica. Paul, the author of the letter includes Silas, and Timothy because they had been with him when the church was established. He begins his letter by giving thanks for the church for the continuation of their work for the Lord. In verse 6 he pays them a big compliment. He had noticed their faith and obedience to the Lord how that they had followed them in their obedience to serve the Lord. They had been patient and hopeful through trials and afflictions. Paul reminds them their power came from God They had remained joyous because their hope was in Heaven, not in each other or in some earthly possessions. They showed evidence that the Holy Spirit dwelled within them. Paul reminds them that he, Silas, and Timothy had brought them the Word, but they also had a living example of their faith in them.
1Thessalonians 1:1 “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Thessalonians 1:5-6 “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.
1Th 1:6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:”
These new Christians were following the pattern of those who lived their faith before them. The written word was not as it is today. They had the Old Testament, but most common people did not have a copy to read. They may have had some of the New Testament letters, but they were not in print like we have them today. Their greatest witness as to the power of God, the forgiveness of God, and the love of God were what they saw in others. While they did have the Holy Spirit living within them, the greatest knowledge came from lives surrendered to Jesus.
These Christians gave their hearts to the Lord, followed the examples God placed before them, and then became examples themselves. Not just examples to those immediately around them, but the word spread to other regions. They were following the great commission that Jesus left them with long before it was called the Great Commission. They took what they learned about Christ and salvation and told others. They were giving us a disciple also.
I Thessalonians 1:7 “So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.”
Matthew 28:19 “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:”
So, how do we make an application of these passages? First, we must be saved. Second, we must be living a life that is obedient to the word. Third, we must be led by the power of the Holy Spirit. When these three things are exhibited in our lives, others will notice. You will have more love for them because you see them as an eternal souls that will spend eternity in either Heaven or Hell. You will live with a servant’s heart doing all you can to promote the cause of Christ. Your life will be characterized as selfless, not selfish. These attributes are so opposite of our world today they will cause others to ask questions and take notice. How are you measuring up? We are all being an example to someone every day but are you one that can be followed as a Christian? Examine yourself today and determine areas where you are not a godly example and with the help of the Holy Spirit make the changes. It can make a difference in someone’s life for eternity.
