What does "offer ourselves as an example" teach about Christian leadership? Setting the Scene 2 Thessalonians 3:9: “Not that we lack this right, but we wanted to offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate.” • Paul had every apostolic right to receive material support (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:4–14), yet he chose tentmaking in Thessalonica (Acts 18:3) so the church could watch him serve without charge. • His choice turns a spotlight on the phrase “offer ourselves as an example,” the heartbeat of authentic Christian leadership. Leaders Who Live the Message Scripture consistently pairs leadership with visible, godly patterns: • 1 Corinthians 11:1 — “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” • Philippians 3:17 — “Join one another in following my example.” • 1 Peter 5:2–3 — shepherds are “examples to the flock,” not overlords. • Titus 2:7 — “In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works.” A leader’s life is the first sermon the people hear. Why Example Leadership Matters • Credibility: Conduct backs up words (1 Thessalonians 1:5). • Clarity: Complex doctrine becomes concrete when lived out (John 13:14–15). • Motivation: People imitate what they admire (Hebrews 13:7). • Protection: A transparent life guards against hypocrisy (1 Timothy 4:16). • Multiplication: Disciple-making begins with “watch me, then follow me” (2 Timothy 2:2). What “Offer Ourselves” Looks Like in Practice • Servant posture: Washing feet, not seeking perks (John 13:13–15). • Willing sacrifice: Laying aside legitimate rights for others’ growth (1 Corinthians 9:12). • Visible integrity: Honesty in work, finances, relationships (Acts 20:33-35). • Steady work ethic: Paul “worked night and day” (2 Thessalonians 3:8), modeling diligence. • Joyful contentment: Trusting God for provision instead of demanding support (Philippians 4:11-13). • Reproducible rhythms: Prayer, Word intake, fellowship lived openly so others can copy (Acts 2:42). The Cost and the Reward Cost • Time and energy: Example requires presence. • Privacy: Lives are on display. • Misunderstanding: Some may exploit a leader’s self-denial. Reward • Growing believers who mature faster by imitation (1 Thessalonians 1:6-8). • A clear conscience and unassailable witness (2 Corinthians 1:12). • Eternal commendation from Christ, “Well done” (1 Peter 5:4). Key Takeaways for Today • Christian leadership is more caught than taught; character precedes content. • Surrendering personal rights can open doors for the gospel that power plays would close. • Leaders set the culture; when they model service, the body learns to serve. • The standard is not perfection but persistent, observable pursuit of Christlikeness. |
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