Topical Encyclopedia
Definition:Leading by example is a principle of leadership that emphasizes the importance of setting a positive example for others to follow. This concept is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, where leaders are called to demonstrate integrity, humility, and righteousness in their actions, thereby inspiring others to emulate their behavior.
Biblical Foundation:The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that underscore the importance of leading by example. Jesus Christ is the ultimate exemplar of this principle, as He lived a life of perfect obedience to God, serving as a model for His followers.
1.
Jesus Christ as the Perfect Example: Jesus' life and ministry are the epitome of leading by example. In
John 13:15 , Jesus says, "I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you." This statement follows the washing of the disciples' feet, an act of humility and service that Jesus performed to teach His disciples about servant leadership.
2.
Apostolic Teaching: The apostles also emphasized the importance of leading by example. The Apostle Paul, in
1 Corinthians 11:1 , urges believers, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." Paul consistently modeled a life of faith, perseverance, and dedication to the Gospel, encouraging others to follow his example as he followed Christ.
3.
Old Testament Examples: The Old Testament also provides instances of leaders who led by example. Moses, for instance, demonstrated faith and obedience to God, guiding the Israelites through the wilderness. Similarly, Joshua's leadership was marked by his commitment to God's commands, as seen in
Joshua 24:15 , where he declares, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
4.
Pastoral Leadership: In the pastoral epistles, the importance of leading by example is reiterated for church leaders. In
1 Timothy 4:12 , Paul advises Timothy, "Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity." This instruction highlights the comprehensive nature of exemplary leadership, encompassing all aspects of life.
5.
Elders and Overseers: The qualifications for elders and overseers in the church, as outlined in
Titus 1:6-9 and
1 Peter 5:1-3 , emphasize the need for leaders to be above reproach, self-controlled, and hospitable, serving as examples to the flock. Peter specifically exhorts elders to "be examples to the flock" (
1 Peter 5:3), underscoring the role of personal conduct in effective leadership.
Practical Application:Leading by example is not limited to formal leadership roles but is a call for all believers to live lives that reflect the teachings of Christ. Whether in the family, workplace, or community, Christians are encouraged to embody the virtues of love, patience, and integrity, thereby influencing others positively.
Challenges and Encouragement:While leading by example can be challenging due to human imperfections, believers are encouraged to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance.
Philippians 4:9 offers encouragement: "Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." This assurance of God's presence provides the motivation and support needed to lead by example in all areas of life.
Topical Bible Verses
1 Peter 5:3Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
Topicalbible.orgHebrews 13:7
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken to you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
Topicalbible.org
Philippians 3:17
Brothers, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as you have us for an ensample.
Topicalbible.org
Greek
4285. proegeomai -- to go before (as a leader)... as a leader). Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: proegeomai Phonetic Spelling:
(pro-ay-geh'-om-ahee) Short Definition: I
lead onward by
example Definition: I
...4291. proistemi -- early
... 4291 (" to take thelead") underlines the effectiveness of influencing peopl, ie
one built on a solid "track-record." This happens by setting theexample of by...
Library
Christ Condemning Sin
... To this also Paul points in the phrase, 'the flesh of sin.' Theexample of which...
Both of these not onlylead to misery, but positively tend to strengthen the...
Concerning Things Performed in the Muron, and Concerning Things...
... and power, by aid of which they will, the rather, scare away the opposing forces,
and will take thelead in healing others; and, following theexample of God...
In Galilee.
... masses of mankind, in politics, in society, in church or family, are constantly
moulded by theexample and influence of leading men. A fewlead; the multitude...
The Redemption of the Body
... Forexample, theylead us to the thought that that redeemed body is no more subject
to decay and death, is no more weighed upon by weakness and weariness, has...
'First to Mary'
... Anexample of how the most degraded may rise highest in fellowship with Christ.... The
noblest illustration is in heaven, where menlead the song of Redemption....
Question of the Active Life
... But a man can, by acts of all the moral virtues,lead his neighbour to good works
by hisexample; and this S. Gregory here attributes to the active life....
'Love Buildeth Up'
... He now completes his position by showing, in verse 10, that the stronger man's
example maylead the weaker to do what he cannot do innocently....
Philippians i. 22-26
... We have many good natural affections, whichlead to virtue; as, forexample, all
of us men are naturally moved to pity, and no other good thing so inheres in...
1 Timothy iv. 14-Nov
... Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou anexample of the believers, in... Judaism,
should be a command, but teaching is required, when you wouldlead men to...
Philippians ii. 8-May
... least an equality. Now if the Son were inferior, this were not a sufficient
example tolead us to humility. And why? because it...
Resources
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