Applying the Doctrine of Examples to Personal Life
The doctrine of examples is rooted in biblical teachings that encourage believers to follow the examples set by Christ and other faithful individuals. Christ's example is paramount, as seen in his self-denial and obedience to God's will (Mt 4:8-10; 8:20; Joh 6:38; Php 2:6-8) [1]. The apostle Paul also emphasized the importance of imitating Christ and following the examples of faithful leaders (1 Cor 4:14-17; Php 3:17) [2, 7].
Biblical Foundations
The biblical basis for the doctrine of examples is evident in various passages. In Philippians 3:17, Paul exhorts believers to "take me as your example, and take note of those who are walking after the example we have given" [2]. This instruction is not limited to Paul's own example but extends to other faithful individuals who follow Christ's teachings. The apostle's own actions, such as working to support himself, serve as a model for believers (2 Thessalonians 3:7-8) [4].
Imitating Christ and God
Imitating Christ is a central aspect of the doctrine of examples. According to Adam Clarke, believers should examine their conduct by the words and example of Christ, striving to resemble their Lord and Master [3]. This involves not comparing oneself to others but rather measuring one's actions against Christ's teachings. Furthermore, believers are encouraged to imitate God, expressing love and following His example (Ephesians 5:1-2) [7].
Application to Personal Life
The doctrine of examples has significant implications for personal life. Believers are called to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, controlling their appetites and abstaining from fleshly lusts (Tit 2:12; 1Pe 2:11) [1]. This involves a process of self-examination and mortification of sinful tendencies. As Matthew Henry notes, Solomon's writings in Ecclesiastes highlight the vanity of worldly pursuits and the importance of contentment with what God has given [5, 6].
Historical and Theological Perspectives
The doctrine of examples has been interpreted and applied in various ways throughout Christian history. Nonconformist and Puritan traditions, represented by Matthew Henry's commentary, emphasize the importance of living a life that reflects Christ's teachings and example [5, 6]. Methodist and Wesleyan perspectives, as seen in Adam Clarke's writings, stress the need for personal holiness and the imitation of Christ [3, 8]. Protestant academic interpretations, such as those found in Tyndale House's commentary, highlight the significance of teaching by example in the ancient world and the apostle Paul's own example [4, 7].
The doctrine of examples remains a vital aspect of Christian discipleship, encouraging believers to follow Christ's teachings and example in their daily lives. By examining their conduct in light of Christ's words and actions, believers can cultivate a deeper commitment to their faith and live out their devotion to God.
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Self-Denial — Christ set an example of -- Mt 4:8-10; 8:20; Joh 6:38; Ro 15:3; Php 2:6-8. A test of devotedness to Christ -- Mt 10:37,38; Lu 9:23,24. Necessary In following Christ. -- Lu 14:27-33. In the warfare of saints. -- 2Ti 2:4. To the triumph of saints. -- 1Co 9:25-27. Ministers especially called to exercise -- 2Co 6:4,5. Should be exercised in Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts. -- Ro 6:12; Tit 2:12. Controlling the appetite. -- Pr 23:2. Abstaining from fleshly lusts. -- 1Pe 2:11. No longer living to lusts of men. -- 1Pe 4:2. Mortifying sinful lusts. -- Mr ”
- Philippians “Philippians 3:17 (BBE) — Brothers, take me as your example, and take note of those who are walking after the example we have given.”
- Galatians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Galatians 6:4: Prove his own work - Let him examine himself and his conduct by the words and example of Christ; and if he find that they bear this touchstone, then he shall have rejoicing in himself alone, feeling that he resembles his Lord and Master, and not in another - not derive his consolation from comparing himself with another who may be weaker, or less instructed than himself. The only rule for a Christian is the word of Christ; the only pattern for his imitation is the example of Christ. He should not compare himself with others; they are not his standard. Christ hath ”
- 2 Thessalonians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on 2 Thessalonians 3:7: 3:7 Teaching by example was highly regarded in the ancient world. Paul himself provided an example by working for his own food (3:8; 1 Thes 2:9).”
- Ecclesiastes (Nonconformist/Puritan) “Matthew Henry on Ecclesiastes 3 (introduction): Solomon having shown the vanity of studies, pleasures, and business, and made it to appear that happiness is not to be found in the schools of the learned, nor in the gardens of Epicurus, nor upon the exchange, he proceeds, in this chapter, further to prove his doctrine, and the inference he had drawn from it, That therefore we should cheerfully content ourselves with, and make use of, what God has given us, by showing, I. The mutability of all human affairs (Ecc 3:1-10). II. The immutability of the divine counsels concerning them and the unsearc”
- Ecclesiastes (Nonconformist/Puritan) “Matthew Henry on Ecclesiastes 1 (introduction): In this chapter we have, I. The inscription, or title of the book (Ecc 1:1). II. The general doctrine of the vanity of the creature laid down (Ecc 1:2) and explained (Ecc 1:3). III. The proof of this doctrine, taken, 1. From the shortness of human life and the multitude of births and burials in this life (Ecc 1:4). 2. From the inconstant nature, and constant revolutions, of all the creatures, and the perpetual flux and reflux they are in, the sun, wind, and water (Ecc 1:5-7). 3. From the abundant toil man has about them and the little satisfactio”
- Ephesians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Ephesians 5:1: 5:1 Imitate God . . . in everything you do: Primarily by expressing love (5:2; cp. Matt 5:44-45, 48). • because you are his dear children: Just as children follow their parents’ example, believers should follow God’s example (1 Cor 4:14-17).”
- John (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on John 7:17: If any man wilt do his will, etc. - I will give you a sure rule by which ye may judge of my doctrine: If you really wish to do the will of God, begin the practice of it; and take my doctrine, and apply it to all that you know God requires of man; and if you find one of my precepts contrary to the nature, perfections, and glory of God, or to the present or eternal welfare of men, then ye shall be at liberty to assert that my doctrine is human and erroneous, and God has not sent me. But if, on the contrary, ye find that the sum and substance of my preaching is, That men”