IBS-48 Find the Application: Live the good example - 1

The Big Idea: It is important that we study and learn from the examples found in Scripture.

Live the Good Example

When my husband was on assignment at the Army Post at Fort Benning, GA, we constantly saw the infantry motto, “Follow me!” It was everywhere! Every time I saw it, it reminded me that the Bible teaches us to be both followers and leaders for His sake.

Everyone needs good role models and heroes; those who show us the way to be. It is important for young children and youth. It is useful for training workers. It is good for all of us to have someone in our life that shows us a way to live better. Here are a few reasons why.

• They show us how to live, and in sickness and death, how to die well
• They show us how to make mistakes and to learn from them
• They show us how to walk through darkness and difficulty
• They teach us better ways to act, interact and respond to our world0
• They give us inspiration and courage

“Follow me” - Jesus

In the Bible you have probably heard Jesus’ phrase, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19 ESV

Sometimes the disciples and others following Jesus were called followers. In the book of Acts many were called this as well. Christianity was referred to as “The Way.” Jesus said He was the Way to God and used this phrase about Himself. It stuck. They followed the Way.

Following or imitating someone worthy of being followed is important. In the animal kingdom, the momma imprints on the babies as to how to behave. It is important for baby Christians to have a fellow  Christian show them how to live too.

Examples from the Word

Christ

Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Ephesians 5:2 NLT

For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. I Peter 2:21 NLT

The Apostle Paul

Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. Philippians 3:17 NLT

For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. 16 So I urge you to imitate me. I Corinthians 4:15b-16 NLT

You should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1

If it ever happens that you do not have very good examples of Christianity around you (and Christians have their blind spots like anyone else) know you can turn to the examples of Jesus and the Apostle Paul. Read the Bible and look for examples how to live as God would want us to live.

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This post is forty-eighth in a series as a Practical Starter Guide for Inductive Bible Study.

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Reflect:

1. Who has been a positive role model in your life? In what ways have you learned from them?

2. Think about the life of Jesus in the Gospels. What is something you appreciate or admire about how He lived or how He handled people? Think about how that might be helpful to you in your walk with God.