Christ is Our Example
By George Stroh
September 17, 2012
For you have been called for this very purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps... (1 Peter 2:21)
In many ways our lives are shaped by the people we admire and follow, by those who have been our teachers, mentors and examples. Parents, of course, first have the awesome privilege and responsibility of teaching their children and influencing them by being good examples for them to follow. Although children don't always follow their parent's example, they usually do; Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)
Throughout life, we have many formal and informal teachers and mentors who influence us for both good and bad. If you look back, I'm sure you can name those who influenced you and directed your path. Hopefully, many of these have been godly men and women who were good examples.
As Christians, we are most blessed to have the ultimate teacher and example, the Lord Jesus Christ. When we trust Jesus Christ as our savior and Lord, we have a new life and a new nature. The Holy Spirit becomes our teacher and Jesus is now our true example of godliness; Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Some Christians wear a bracelet that has the inscribed letters "WWJD" (What Would Jesus Do?) as a reminder to follow His example in everything. Better yet, "WWJD" should be forever inscribed on our hearts and minds. If He is to be our teacher, mentor and example, it is necessary for us to become intimately familiar with Him, saturated by His word and sensitive to His every leading; All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16)
Your and my Christian life is pleasing to God when we faithfully and effectually hear His word and follow the good and perfect example of our Lord Jesus Christ. Maranatha!
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