Managing God's People - Part 6
You're the example God gave the flock to look at and learn. You're not just a teacher, prophet or apostle. You're your member's model to emulate.
You're not living right only for yourself but also for the many others the Lord sent to you. You cannot afford to mislead them with improper conduct.
As a Pastor your conduct is now public property. Everyone is rightly interested in what you say or do and how you do it.
2 Thessalonians 3:9
[9]Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.
Like Paul, you'll have to deny yourself certain lawful things just to remain a good example to God's people.
A man of God can't just do whatever he or she wants. There are things you may have to avoid because it puts you and the name of Christ in a bad light.
Because so many look up to you as an example and model, you must remain saintly and worthy of emulation.
1 Peter 5:3
[3]Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
You're not called to be lord or boss. You're called to serve. You're an example to the flock of God.
Teaching and preaching is not enough, they need a physical example to look at and follow.
Philippians 3:17
[17]Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
In your local Church, the criteria for leader should be those who truly see you as their example. Those who don't may be committed but won't be able to lead according to the pattern of the calling on your ministry.
Those in your ministry who are following your example should be elevated for others to see and emulate.
Those following you faithfully are the ones other Church members should mark and emulate.
Titus 2:7-8
[7]In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
[8]Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.
Your every step must be exemplary. If you don't want your followers to copy it then don't do it. You're no longer a private person. All you do matters to the public.
You must be above reproach and abuse. You're God's representative you cannot be found wanting.
1 Timothy 4:12
[12]Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
If you don't stand tall in integrity, you'll invite shame to yourself and the name of the Lord.
Be an example in word, conversation, charity, spirit, faith and purity.
Romans 2:21-24
[21]Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?
[22]Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?
[23]Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?
[24]For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.
Practice what you preach. Don't behave like the Pharisees. Put effort to stay true to your teaching. Don't be found wanting.
It's not just your words people learn from, they learn from your actions too.
Hebrews 13:7
[7]Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
God is teaching people with your life, don't make it difficult for Him. For some people it's only through your life they'll learn the truth of the scriptures.
For the sake of those of us following your life and faith we need you to be a perfect example for us.
Kevin Ashwe
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