1&2 Timothy: Priorities & Principles In LeadershipSample

Be A Role Model

When Brother Yun, the Heavenly Man, came to Malaysia, thousands flocked to see the man whose faith in Christ had triumphed in the midst of cruel persecution. I believe the people who overflowed Brother Yun's meetings were actually longing to see a role model, a Christian who had walked the talk, who had done heroic things in an age where heroes are found mainly in comic books.

Paul was a hero, a role model who could boldly say 'follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ' (1 Corinthians 11:1). In his final charge to Timothy, we see why we should emulate him:

- He accepted persecution and suffering as part of the godly Christian life (vs 10-11).

- He recognised all Scripture as the God breathed, life changing word of God (vs 16-17).

- He believed in proclaiming the Gospel with great urgency, in view of Jesus returning as Judge and the growing fascination in myths (vs 1-4).

If we were to write our own epitaphs what would we say? For Paul the most fitting epitaph would certainly be his own words, 'I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.' The persecutor turned preacher had fulfilled the mission that began on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19). Now, as Paul looks forward to his heavenly reward, he throws us a challenge to follow his example (v 8b).

Encourage young people in the family to follow the example of great heroes of the faith, rather than movie stars and singing idols!