Being A Godly Example: 3 Principles

Being A Godly Example: 3 Principles (1 Timothy 4:12; 1 Peter 2:11 – 12; Philippians 4:9) – Bible Lesson. Teen Bible Lesson.

There are many role models in our society, some good and some bad. Often we get so caught up in admiring or imitating our role models that we forget to think about what kind of spiritual example they are setting for us. The apostles Peter and Paul give clear advice about being a Christian example. In today’s lesson, we will consider three principles.

Your teacher will give you one of the following research assignments. Study the assigned Scripture texts and be ready to report upon them.

Principle One: Refuse to act your age.

1. To whom was Paul writing? Describe their relationship (Acts 16:1 – 5; 1 Timothy 1:2).

2. What task was Timothy given by Paul (1 Timothy 1:3)? What seemed to be the charge that false teachers made against Timothy (1 Timothy 4:12a)?

3. How did Paul suggest that this charge be answered (1 Timothy 4:12b)?

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Principle Two: Resist cultural pressure.

4. To whom was Peter writing (1 Peter 1:1)? Do you find it difficult to be a good example when you are around a lot of people who are different from you? Explain.

5. How might Peter refute this old saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do?” See 1 Peter 2:11.

6. Read 1 Peter 2:12? What are positive and negative results of trying to “fit in” with non-Christian acquaintances? Which result outweighs the other? Explain.

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Principle Three: Respond to godly mentors.

7. To whom was Paul writing (Philippians 1:1)? Describe their relationship (Acts 16:10 – 12; Philippians 1:3 – 6).

8. What command did Paul have for the Philippian Christians (Philippians 4:9a)? Do you think this was a reasonable command in this case? Why or why not?

9. What results did Paul promise for obedience to that command (Philippians 4:9b)? Knowing that Paul was in prison when he wrote these words, do you believe that this promise is credible? Explain.

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As young Christians, we can lead spiritually disciplined lives and display maturity that cannot be judged by our ages alone. We can refuse to “conform . . . to the pattern of this world (Romans 12:2). We can be teachable and follow the pattern of godly mentors. Find great examples – the best being Jesus. And while we are learning, we also teach.

Personal Application: Living as a godly example can be very difficult, especially since we are so influenced by the world. How have you chosen to express Jesus in your life? Are there changes you need to make in your example to others?

Related Links:

Encouragement For Teens and Young People (rmhic.wordpress.com)

Our Lives Teach Us Who We Are (rmhic.wordpress.com)

A Spirit Controlled Life (or Not) (rmhic.wordpress.com)

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