“You also became imitators of us and of the Lord… so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.” 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7
Real faith doesn’t just receive the gospel; it reflects Jesus by imitating Him and those who follow Him faithfully. Paul wasn’t afraid to say, “Follow me as I follow the Lord.” That’s not arrogance. That’s an invitation to see what it looks like to live for Jesus in real time. The Thessalonians watched Paul, mimicked his behavior, and then became examples themselves. This is how faith spreads, not through programs or perfect theology alone, but through lives that visibly reflect Jesus.
Think about who you’re imitating. Who are the people in your life living out their faith in a way that makes you want to follow Jesus more? And just as importantly, who’s watching you? Whether you realize it or not, your life is setting an example. Students who served in middle school ministry because they were impacted by high schoolers who served them. High schoolers helping people move and inviting them to church. These aren’t flashy, social media moments. They’re everyday acts of reflecting Jesus. Your faith should be contagious, not because you’re perfect, but because you’re real. When people see your life, do they see someone who loves Jesus and is trying to follow Him, or do they just see someone going through the motions?
Reflect:
- Who in your life is setting an example of following Jesus that you can imitate?
- How are you setting an example for others, whether you realize it or not?
- Ask God to show you who He’s placed in your life to learn from, and pray for the courage to be a genuine example of faith to others.
