The Effectiveness of An Exemplary Example (Part 5) by Dr. Rod Mattoon

About this sermon

In Part 5 of the series Effectiveness of Exemplary Example, we will be looking at A Pattern for Believers. Here is a portion of the message. 1 Timothy 4:12b- “be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” Have you ever played a rough game, fallen on the ice, or bumped into something around the house and it left a bruise on your arm or leg? Have you ever cut yourself and left a scar? For many of us, we have experienced our share of bruises and scars. Bruises and scars are the ideas behind the word “example” in this verse. The phrase "be an example" is from the word tupos {too'-pos}. It means "the mark or impression from a blow; a die, stamp, or scar." Thomas used this same word when he told the disciples he would not believe in the resurrection of Jesus unless he could see and feel the print of the nails in the Lord’s hands (John 20:25). The word “print” is from tupos. Beloved, we are to stamp our lives upon others, pointing them to Christ. The way we live should leave a mark in the hearts of those who witness how we live. Godliness, patience, sacrifice, wisdom, and love can make a massive impact and mark in the lives of people like a scar that will not go away. In the face of problems and difficulties with people that Timothy might encounter, Paul told him, “Be an example!” Timothy’s godly example would silence his worst critics, skeptics, and doubters. Albert Schweitzer said, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing." A good example has twice the value of good advice. It was Peter who said in 1 Peter 3:16, “Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.” The word “conversation” refers to your lifestyle or the way you live. Paul listed half a dozen ways in which Timothy should be an example. If he followed Paul's advice, he could overcome the handicap of his youthfulness. This same train of thought surfaced in the book of Titus, too. * Titus 2:7—In all things shewing thyself a PATTERN of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, As we look at these different areas that Paul stressed, take inventory of your life to assess your strength and weaknesses of these traits. What is the quality of your example or pattern? It is obvious that your example is important. This message was preached on Wednesday night, April 26, 2023, at Lincoln Land Baptist Church.