6 You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 1 Thessalonians 1:6–7
It’s sobering to put yourself up as a role model to a new believer, or to a promising prospect. If you stand outside of yourself, what are you seeing? If you stop to listen to what you’re saying, is it even remotely close to what the Lord would say? Is it the slight bit compelling? Yet Paul says on more than one occasion (four other times in the New Testament not counting a mention in Hebrews) to be imitators (mimetes in the Greek, or mimics) of him, or his companions.
But it appears that on most occasions where the word is used, the Lord is added to the equation (“and of the Lord”), for which I am thankful. To me, following the Lord is one high bar, and I’d hesitate to follow me anywhere without him. For this reason, what is and will be compelling to others, saved or unsaved, is our joyful manner, not so much what we say. Example or typos in the Greek means a “die” or “stamp.” If we all walk with the Lord, there should be uniformity in our gate. If you’re observant, you’ll note that a mother and daughter will walk similarly, as will a father and son. They’ll have the same mannerisms. It’s uncanny.
We can usually tell when someone is authentic. If we’re transparent in our walks with Christ, it gives the observer a window in. What enhances the nonverbals is joy as mentioned, especially in tribulation. That’s why we need to be especially conscious of our response to trials. If we’re always throwing our helmets in the dugout, what message is that sending? Here, the Thessalonians are seeing their new role models under the circumstances, and they’re impressed by what they’re witnessing. And as we understand from Paul’s commendations, the Thessalonians were standing up quite well themselves under pressure, especially in the eyes of the Macedonians and Achaians.
8 For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything. 1 Thessalonians 1:8
But now that this point has been made, what we say, if the gospel, has its own power source. In and of itself, it’s compelling and contagious. Like a virus, the word of God spreads exponentially. What an awesome thought for a salvation experience of someone thrice removed to be traced back to some innocent comment of mine inspired by the Spirit, especially in the heat of battle. It’s also encouraging to know that one’s small utterance will be magnified and multiplied. While we may think we’re sharing “idle” thoughts, the Lord sends out these words, authenticated by our faith, with a life of their own. What a strategy!
So the message to me is to not discount even the simplest things said and done in the cause of Christ. Be conscious of the nonverbals, only in the sense that you might be seen as a clean vessel, like the disciple Nathanael in the Lord’s eyes, as one “without guile.” John 1:47 Latch on to those who fit the Lord’s mold, those who are going somewhere someday. It’s not you who should walk through that door, but your faith!
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