1. "BE AN EXAMPLE" “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe”. 1 Timothy 4:12

2. INTRODUCTION Each and everyone of us is an example of some kind to someone, somewhere. It is a compliment to be followed by someone. 1 Corinthians 11:1. No one is exempt from being an example. Romans 14:7. Being an example is one of the best ways to teach any lesson.

3. INTRODUCTION For I may misunderstand you and the high advice you give; But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live. -----Edgar A. Guest I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day.---- Mark Twain(Samuel Clemmons) Mr. Webster says: Example: 1. One or a portion taken to show the character or quality of all; a sample. 2. That which is to be followed or imitated; a pattern.

4. EXAMPLES CAN EITHER BE GOOD OR BAD The Egyptians were bad examples and were no to be followed by the Israelites; Leviticus 18:1-5. The majority sometimes are bad examples to follow; Exodus 23:2; Genesis 6:1-8. Many times our own relatives are bad examples; 2 Chronicles 30:6-9. Sons followed wicked fathers as kings over Israel. 1 Kings 18:18; 2 Kings 20:32 Many fathers (or mothers) today are not setting the right example for their children.

5. EXAMPLES CAN EITHER BE GOOD OR BAD Our hearts do not always set the right example. Jeremiah 16:12. 1. People say: "I will follow the feelings of my heart." Jeremiah 17:9,10. E. We are not to follow after evil examples; 3 John 11; Romans 12:9.

6. WE CAN BE GOOD EXAMPLES AND FOLLOW AFTER GOOD EXAMPLES. Example in Faith. 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8. Example in Good Works. Titus 2:7,8. Example in Suffering and Patience. James 5:10,11. Christ was a good example for us. 1 Peter 2:11-25. Elders are to be good examples. 1 Peter 5:3.

7. WE CAN BE GOOD EXAMPLES AND FOLLOW AFTER GOOD EXAMPLES. Women are to be good examples. 1 Peter 3:1- 6. Parents are to be good examples. Ephesians 6:4. Teachers are to be good examples. Romans 2:21-24; 1 Timothy 2:8-15; Titus 2:1-10; James 3:1 Preachers are to be good examples. 1 Timothy 4:12.

8. ALL CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE GOOD EXAMPLES IN: Word. Ephesians 4:20; Colossians 4:6; 1 Peter 4:11. In manner of life or conduct. Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Peter 3:1. Faith. Colossians 1:23; 2 Thessalonians 1:3. Love. John 13:35; 1 John 5:3. Purity. Matthew 5:8; James 1:27.

9. CONCLUSION: Let us ask ourselves two questions: Am I a good example? If every member were like me, what type of congregation would this one be? If you are a good example now, continue to be one. If your are not a good example now, become one.