29/07/2025
(Susan, USA)
Being a Christian Example: The E in PACE
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to more than just belief, we are called to be an example. Not just in what we say, but in how we live.
In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul exhorts young Timothy, saying:
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
This verse isn’t just for the young, it's a call to all of us. Every Christian is being watched by someone: our children, coworkers, neighbors, or friends. And in a world where people are desperate for hope and truth, our lives may be the only Bible someone reads.
Of course, our ultimate model is Christ Himself. In John 13:15, after washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus said:
“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Jesus’ humility, compassion, obedience, and servant-heartedness show us what it means to live a godly life. He didn’t just teach truth, He embodied it. He fed the hungry, healed the broken, forgave the sinners, and spent time in prayer with His Father. If we want to be Christ-like examples, it starts with learning from the Master.
One of the most consistent parts of Jesus’ life was His prayer life. Even though He was the Son of God, He regularly withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). Before choosing His disciples, He spent all night in prayer. Before the cross, He prayed in Gethsemane. He taught His followers to pray, and showed them how essential it was.
If prayer was crucial for Jesus, how much more do we need it? Prayer keeps our hearts aligned with God. It fuels our love, sharpens our witness, and reminds us of our dependence on the Holy Spirit. Without prayer, we’re trying to represent Christ in our own strength and we will fall short every time.
In Colossians 4:2-3, Paul writes:
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message…”
Prayer isn’t just personal, it also opens doors for the Gospel. If we want to be faithful examples, we must start on our knees.
Few have championed everyday Christians living out their faith like Melvin Steinbron, the founder of the Lay Pastor Ministry. In his book Can the Pastor Do It Alone?, Steinbron laid out a vision that every church member could be trained and empowered to shepherd others, not just the professional clergy.
Steinbron believed that being a Christian wasn’t a spectator sport. Every believer is called to serve, to disciple, and to be a spiritual example in their sphere of influence. Lay pastors are not theologians or seminary graduates. They are everyday people who pray, care, and walk with others through life’s ups and downs. Living out the Gospel authentically and intentionally is part of being a successful lay pastor.
Being a lay pastor reminds us that the role of a Christian isn’t confined to a Sunday pew. It’s in homes, hospitals, schools, workplaces and wherever God has placed us. The body of Christ grows when ordinary believers embrace their extraordinary calling to reflect Jesus.
Being an example means letting our faith show in how we speak, how we respond to conflict, how we use our time and money, and how we treat people, especially those who can do nothing for us in return.
Philippians 2:14-15 gives us this charge:
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
We are meant to shine. Not for our glory, but so others can see Christ in us.
One Sunday, I drove 100 miles to reach 8 people who could not come to church due to various illnesses. It was a communion Sunday, so I got some of the consecrated bread and juice and went to hospital rooms, nursing homes and homes of those who missed communion.
It took my entire Sunday afternoon. Had I viewed the visits as a task to check off a list, I’m certain I would have been grumbling by the end of the day, but I know the Lord was calling me to worship Him with these people. Instead of feeling cheated out of a Sunday afternoon, I felt the Lord’s presence and was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.
You don’t need a microphone, a degree, or a title to make a difference. You need a surrendered heart, a commitment to prayer, and the courage to walk out your faith, even when it’s hard. Whether you’re leading a small group, caring for a neighbor, praying for your coworkers, or simply offering a listening ear, you are a light in a dark world.
As a lay pastor, be intentional, pray, love, serve, and be grateful God has assigned this call and service to you.
And may we live in such a way that people are drawn not to us, but to Christ in us.
