Want To Be a Model?

May, 2004

by: Walt Bertelsen

Want To Be A Model? You're in the right place! (Part 1 of many.)

You may be surprised to learn that there are models attending Calvary. Yes, both male and female models. They are everywhere. You can find them around the community almost anywhere you go: around church, at the markets, local restaurants, parks, homes.We're not talking about clothing and make–up, but about modeling the Christian life.

The need for disciplers: good problem

In the Men's Ministry, we've been talking a lot lately about the “D” word — discipleship. In February, Jack Hughes spoke to us about “Discipleship Jesus' Style,” and laid out for us twelve distinctives that marked the way Jesus trained His disciples. He also challenged us to either find people to disciple us or disciple others ourselves. (Get the tape!)

Many men took this challenge quite seriously. We now have a problem (a good problem!): more men are begging to be discipled than there are men available to do it.

Back to the Scriptures: clear away misconceptions

What to do? In the Scriptures, we shall find that God didn't leave us as unprepared to carry on this most essential and joyous duty as we may

think.

There are some serious misconceptions about what it means to disciple another. A typical picture of discipleship sees a more mature Christian working with others to help them along the road of spiritual growth. This might involve Bible study, reading and discussing a book, talking through issues, giving discipleship assignments, etc.

This common picture is not entirely accurate. It leaves out the modeling. Modeling is simply living out the life in front of one another. Modeling the Christian life is probably the single most impactful part of the discipleship process. I would encourage you, therefore, not to think that, because you are not a “Bible teacher,” you can't disciple. Knowing the Word is essential, living it is the key.

Modeling is everywhere

Where is this modeling in the Scripture? It's everywhere! Think of Jesus teaching the first disciples. While He did much teaching, their years together was living: talking, eating, playing, and watching Jesus interact with many.

Jesus' commission included “…teaching them to obey everything.” (Mt 28:20) Do you have any idea what this involves? (See John 13:15, 1 Jn 2:6, Phil 2:5-8, and more). Think of Paul. He told the highly imperfect Corinthians to be imitators of him, as he was of Christ (1 Cor 11:1). And he also sent Timothy to them, to remind them of his ways, (4.16.17). Paul also said, “The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil 4:9).

Modeling is indelible and applicable

Some of the greatest lessons of living for Christ have been learned by watching others' lives. Here are some examples from my own life:

My best friend led me to Christ. He didn't sit down one day and teach me verses. He was consumed by the Word and with living for Christ. I saw reality as we just hung out.

Dick Laue was real. Over 25 years, I not only heard but saw consistent reality during snippets of time spent together.

Others' lives are still impacting me greatly. Most of this is during very brief snippets of time. I recently got to observe a person, whom I had barely known before, in brief and varied daily contact. In “spiritual” conversation and in mundane ordinary talk, doing “menial” tasks and ministry, I was greatly encouraged and challenged by the reality of consistent, simple faith and devotion to the Lord. It is worthy of my imitation.

I find myself consciously putting into practice what I've seen in these and other's lives.

Gentlemen and gentle women: let your Light shine, however tiny the exposure.