In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
Titus 2:7-8 NIV
As a teacher, it is essential to model the virtues you teach to your students. They draw inferences not only by the content of your lessons but also by the life you live. Your words must align with your actions because you are a living example. This responsibility demands integrity, consistency, and a genuine embodiment of your teaching principles.
For us as believers, this calling extends beyond the classroom or mere words. As followers of Christ, we represent Him in our daily lives, and our actions must serve as a testimony to those around us. This Scripture challenges us to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in everything we do, presenting a life worthy of imitation and honourable in its conduct. It is not enough to simply say the right things; we must live in such a way that our lives become an undeniable reflection of the truth we proclaim.
Our speech and actions, guided by the Spirit of God, carry significant weight. This is especially when they come from a teacher, or someone entrusted with leading others. Careless speech undermines the credibility of our testimony. Therefore, our words must be seasoned with grace, truth, and reverence. A teacher who lives out the truths they teach is beyond reproach, demonstrating integrity and sincerity that cannot be questioned.
This standard of living was exemplified by the early disciples of Christ. In Acts 11:26, we learn that the believers were first called Christians in Antioch. This designation was not self-proclaimed but given to them because their lives so clearly reflected Christ. Their speech, conduct, and commitment to the faith revealed Jesus to the world around them. They didn’t just talk about holiness and righteousness; they lived it out daily, embodying the life and character of Christ.
In contrast, those who fail to live what they teach diminish the power of their message. A life disconnected from its professed values creates a gap that others can see and criticise. The challenge, therefore, is to be teachers and believers whose lives speak as loudly as their words. Our conduct, speech, and devotion should confirm our faith, leaving no room for accusations of hypocrisy.
Meanwhile, this is not a task we undertake on our own strength. When we surrender our lives to Christ, the Holy Spirit works within us, enabling us to reflect Jesus. The Spirit empowers us to live lives that point others to the Saviour, not through empty words but through genuine transformation.
Let us examine our lives today. Are we living examples of what we profess to believe? Do our actions affirm our words? As teachers, parents, leaders, or simply believers, we must be mindful of the message our lives are sending.
The call to live as an example is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is an opportunity to influence lives, pointing others to Christ through the consistency of our words and actions. Let us strive to be doers of the word and not hearers only, living lives that bring honour to God and inspire others to follow Him. In the end, our faithfulness to this calling will serve as a beacon of hope and a testimony of God’s transformative power.