The Example. Philippians 3:17. “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so, as ye have us for an ensample.” An example is an exact representation of the original. Paul followed the example of the Lord Jesus Christ in his life and encouraged the Philippians to follow his pattern of living. This did not mean they were supposed to copy everything he did, but they should focus their lives on Christ as he did. He had given himself, Timothy, and Epaphroditus as models to follow so that those who observed the Philippian believers could see what Christ was like. They were to do the same.
It is not good works that save people, but good works provide clear evidence that we know the Lord Jesus Christ, who has saved us from our sins. Through our good works, we seek to make Christ known to others. He is our primary goal in life. The consistent Christian life serves as a testimony of who He is to those who don’t know Him. The lifestyles of Christians in various walks of life should be examples for those who know us and work with us.
Suffering for and with Christ is a testimony of our faith in Him to those who suffer. Living out our faith through the work we do and practicing what Christ taught in practical and personal ways demonstrates the reason we do our best in our labors. In our daily work, the way we work and our attitude toward work are best expressed when we do our jobs “as unto the Lord.” When we “live Christ,” then we can “preach Christ” in whatever way is open to us.
Paul could testify to believers with an open and honest heart, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” People today who love the Lord still follow Paul’s example as one who suffered for the sake of the Gospel as he went to “regions beyond.” He lived Christ in his personal attitude and conduct, which strengthened him when he “preached Christ” to those who were dead in trespasses and sins. The grace of God is revealed when His people represent Christ in their humanity and through their personal faith in Him.
If people who have never read the Bible want to learn about Jesus, they should be able to gain some understanding of Him whenever they see us and listen to what we say and how we say it. There should be enough of a difference in me that those who live in sin can recognize that, even though I am a simple man, I am different in practice. My speech should be filled with gracious words so I don’t have to make a big fuss to show my allegiance to God. The things I say should be trustworthy; people should know I tell the truth. When I buy or sell something, the people I deal with should see that I am offering a fair price or buying without implying I think they are unfair. If I don’t want to pay the price they ask, I simply won’t buy it—that’s all.
In my interactions with others—whether they are poor, of a different nationality, or belong to a different ethnic group—I should not judge them based on their possessions or appearance but instead remain impartial. To God, each individual is more valuable than all material wealth combined. I should keep my pride in check if they come from different nations. My lifestyle should not be showy, even if I am not poor. Showing off my success or wealth would prevent people from hearing what I have to say and might cause them to doubt the sincerity of my faith.
When trying to share the Gospel message with others, whether publicly or privately, it's better to become as much like them as possible—not patronizing, but showing empathy. If I am at a meal, when it's time to eat, I will eat what others are eating and avoid drawing attention to myself. I will hide my preferences and dislikes, not letting my face show any inner aversion, so I can bless others.
Some differences I notice when dealing with people might seem funny to me. But I would be wrong to laugh or make careless, thoughtless comments. When He was here, the Lord knew that the people around Him were sinners. Yet He identified Himself with the needs of those in sin, and like Him, I should connect as often as possible to seek to win some souls to Christ. Paul was a good example; he focused his life on Christ. I must follow the same path, even though there may be a price to pay. For example, the end of a life can be either good or bad. I want those who come after me to know the blessings God gave me for a lifetime.
When we focus on Christ as Paul did, we can serve as examples to others. He obeyed God's laws and understood heaven's language. He was committed to God's cause and aware that his record was kept in heaven. It was the Lord of heaven whom he served, and he eagerly awaited His return. These qualities are shared by those who follow in the footsteps of faithful servants like Paul who have gone before us. There is a clear contrast between Paul and those who opposed the cross of Christ.
Some who claim to be Christians are actually false professors. They are not called enemies of the blood of Christ, nor are they enemies of His death, burial, and resurrection, which constitute the Gospel. Instead, they are enemies of "the cross of Christ." The cross signifies our daily identification with Christ. There is shame and reproach associated with the cross, and it’s not popular, even among Christians. Few are willing to endure what Paul endured for the sake of the cross. He said, "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." Christ was indeed his Lord, representing the role He holds in our lives. He is our Lord.