| These Spirit-inspired words written by Paul to young Timothy are equally applicable to every Christian, for all of us are called to be “an example of the believers” in every area of our lives. We are told to “make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed,” and to “let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ. … Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” We are to “speak … the things which become sound doctrine,” and to be “in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,” that we “no longer should live the rest of … time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.” We who are saved “have been called unto liberty,” but we are to “use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” May it not be true of us as it was of the scribes and Pharisees, that “they say, and do not.” Rather, by God’s enabling grace, “be thou an example of the believers.” |
