Be An Example

1Ti 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Paul speaking by the Holy Spirit gives Timothy his young minister friend some timeless encouragement about how we should conduct ourselves as Christians and as servants of the LORD." Let no man despise your youth." I have found when witnessing in the Internet chats speaking by the Spirit that some will resort to the put down: "How old are you?" As if their age somehow gives them more wisdom and understanding. Usually these are proud people, not wanting to lose an argument, even if it is God they argue with. The word of God has power and authority over someone's age. We are to respect one another, especially is the man or woman of God to be above reproach in their life before those of the world.

"...but be thou an example of the believers" An example; typos, a type,a figure formed by an impression; a pattern to be imitated, worthy of imitation. I think of a kings ring that made an impression in wax, sealing a document, making it official. We are impressed upon by God by the seal of his Holy Spirit. We are his authentic followers.We are to be imitators of Jesus, true examples of his believers. We are to faithfully do what he did and what he commanded us to do.

Be servants

John 13:14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
John 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

Longsuffering

1Ti 1:16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Good works

Tit 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

Do greater things

Joh 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

How is it possible for us to do greater things than Jesus did? First, we realize that it is not our doing, but he is working in us by the Holy Spirit. All good that we do is by his presence in our lives. We can do nothing of ourselves, but we can do all things through his Spirit.

Php 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

We must walk by the Spirit in order to do the work of God. There is no list to follow, but we are to know God's word in our hearts and be led by his Spirit. This is to live a life as an example of how a Christian is to live.

1Pe 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

We should take this calling seriously as dedicated servants and sons of God. Anything less is to take away from his glory. LORD be glorified in your servants, amen.