Scripture:
2 Thessalonians 3:6-9
Fri, 4 November 2022

Leadership Authority Through Living Example

Observation:

What is the significance of the verb “imitate” being repeated twice in Paul’s instruction to the Thessalonians?

Deeper Reflection
THE PROBLEM OF IDLENESS AMONG THE THESSALONIANS was serious enough for Paul to exert his apostolic authority to demand obedience from them to “the things that we command” (2 Thess 3:4, 6, 10, 12, 14). How Paul exercised his apostolic authority shows us the Christian way to exercise leadership authority in, not just the church, but also our family, the workplace and other settings. First and foremost of all is leading by example.Exercising his apostolic authority, Paul commands the Thessalonians to implement church discipline on those who disobeyed the apostolic “tradition” and refused to work and “walk in idleness” (v.6). Paul’s apostolic command was undergirded by how he lived his life: “we were not idle” (v.7) and how “with toil and labor we worked day and night” for their own sustenance (v.8). This gave Paul the authority to say without any sense of pride that his life was “an example” for them “to imitate” (v.9). More than that, he had the authority to direct them: “You ought to imitate us” (v.7). This reflects Paul’s confidence that his life was to be an example to be followed. It was a humble confidence, not of himself, but in the Lord (cf. 2 Cor 10:17-18).We do not live by example because we are leading, but rather that the way we live our lives – whether we are leaders or not – naturally becomes an example when we lead. The central principle in Paul’s leadership is: The starting point is “I follow the example of Christ” and out of this is “Follow my example” (1 Cor 11:1, NIV).
Application:

What areas in my life do I need to change so as to be good example?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for SGI leaders: To lead by example at home, in the workplace and ministry
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for those in need
  • Pray for self

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Daily Devo
Daily Devotional Journal
Sun, 31 December 2023

Sunday Journal

Past Week’s Review
  • What was my high point and my low point for the week?
  • What gave me life and what drained me?
  • How was the Spirit of God at work?
Reflect

What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond

What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying?
Commit in prayer.

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