A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 1: I nt roduc t i on

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and teach these things. [12] Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

a. The Christian leader must endure discipline for the purpose of godliness.

b. His strategy: Right practice makes more perfect (Heb. 5.11-14)

3. The Question : am I willing to discipline myself for the purpose of godliness and usefulness for the purpose of God?

E. A community of living examples and supporters

1. The Demand : The one whose life before God and others is compelling is a life modeled on the basis of others who support them in their quest.

2. An Example : Paul, Phil. 4.9 – What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

a. We need examples to follow as we pursue a testimony that is compelling.

b. His asset: authentic pictures and models of godly people can strengthen us and enable us to be used by the Lord in a deeper, more enriching way (e.g., 1 Cor. 11.1 – Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.)