Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. (1 Timothy 4:12)

The Importance Of Example

An example is something that serves as a pattern to be imitated or not to be imitated. It is much like a tool die used to strike an image into metal in stamping. Jesus taught the disciples to be lights in the world and to be like the salt of the earth, seasoning the reasoning of human wisdom with divine examples. Examples can be good or bad. To follow a bad example is to go down the wrong path and lead others with you. It is more difficult to follow the examples of the righteous because this wisdom is opposed to the wisdom of the world. There is an innate nature of man to follow others, and the decision must always be whether the outcome is good or bad.

Paul wanted Timothy to be a good example. He exhorted Timothy to be an example to the believers. An example is best served when it knows which direction to take. Believers need examples of others living righteous lives. It is obvious that Timothy’s example to the believers would extend to non-believers, but the focus is on the work of the church. Timothy needed to be an example to the family of God. His pattern of life would benefit the work of the church, helping everyone struggling with faith to be more hopeful about the promises of God because of Timothy’s life.

The apostle did not leave the suggestion of being a good example without direction. Paul points out areas Timothy needed to focus on. He needed to be an example to the believers in word and deed. A man is judged by his words. How a man presents himself says a lot about his character. Timothy needed to show a pattern of good words seasoned with the salt of divine knowledge. There is no place for idle talk, gossip, lying, or murmuring. A child of God must be known as a person of his word. They should be viewed with the respect of an honest word.

The conduct of Timothy must be beyond reproach. A person’s manner of life reflects the fruits of his labor. The general demeanor of Timothy’s life would be a pattern any would be willing to follow. Being a good example is about living life outside the framework of a building on Sunday. The Christian life is not a prosthesis that is worn on Sunday and removed the rest of the week. An example of a godly life can only come from someone living a godly life (and the reverse is also true). The fact should be apparent that every Christian lives in a glass house. His life is under the microscope of a perverse world. Like Daniel, there is nothing to find because the word of God measures the example of life.

Love is the central part of Timothy’s heart. Not only does Timothy have a love for the Lord, but his life also shows it. Forgiveness is a key part of Timothy’s life. Showing love to others is an example of how Christians show the world God’s love for them. He is not an arrogant or rude person. The example of Timothy is love, bearing with others, hoping in God, and enduring the trials of life with a positive, godly demeanor. People of love are known as people of love. What a powerful example for believers to see a brother or sister in Christ who loves God and shows that love in their lives.

To be an example in faith is to be a person of faith. Jesus taught the disciples that a man is known by his fruits. Godliness and faith are evident in a person’s actions and are clearly defined by a person’s life. Faith is central to the core message of the Christian to the church. His faith is evident in how he engages with the work of the Lord and helps the church grow. Faith is found in action, not just in words. Those in need are cared for by brethren filled with faith. Those who are struggling are strengthened by the faithful. Timothy needed to be an example of faith for others to follow.

Finally, Paul exhorts Timothy to be an example of purity. The challenge of sin lies in its attack on the purity of the heart. There is no greater work of Satan than to corrupt and defile the heart with impurity. Timothy’s life must be above reproach. His example of purity is a pattern for others to follow. The Christian has a great influence on others when they follow the pattern of purity. It not only cleanses the individual’s heart but also helps others who struggle with impurity remain pure. Patterns are important to follow. Godliness is a pattern that must be desired to be emulated.

Being an example to others and showing oneself as an example to believers comes at a high cost. It takes much faith, prayer, and meditation on the word of God. What the church needs are more examples like Timothy – at whatever age. Everyone needs to be an example to the believers so the work of the church can grow and the world can see the glory of Jesus Christ. Be that example.