“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).
Halford Luccock, in his book “Communicating the Gospel,” wrote something that affected my approach to ministry. He said, “I am convinced if I asked any one of you suddenly to recall five sermons you have listened to, you would be hard put to answer. But if I should ask you to name five persons through whom God has put his hand on your life, you would not hesitate a moment.”
When I reflect on the influences that have helped shape my life I must admit that I have benefited greatly from the teaching I have heard. My understanding of the Christian life has been enhanced by the things I have learned from a multitude of teachers. Yet, my life has really been shaped by watching others who have shown me how to live by the way they live their lives.
Paul didn’t just say, “Follow my example.” He added the important qualification—“as I follow Christ.” Many of our friends won’t read the Bible and won’t discover Jesus in its pages. They will read our lives, though.
I love teachers who have explained Scripture to me. However, the greatest contributions to my life have been watching those who have lived Christ-like lives that showed me the way to live. Following them led me to Christ because He’s the One they were following. My personal goal is to follow Jesus so closely that anyone who follows me will find Him, too.
