The concept of exhortation to teach and model godliness is deeply rooted in the Christian Scriptures, emphasizing the responsibility of believers to instruct others in the ways of the Lord and to live lives that reflect His holiness. This entry explores the biblical foundation for this exhortation, highlighting key passages and principles that underscore the importance of teaching and modeling godliness.

Biblical Foundation

The call to teach and model godliness is evident throughout the Bible, with both the Old and New Testaments providing guidance and examples. In the Old Testament, the Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, serves as a foundational text: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. Teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage underscores the importance of teaching God's commandments to the next generation and integrating them into daily life.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently exhorts believers to teach and model godliness. In his letter to Titus, Paul instructs, "In everything, set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that is beyond reproach, so that anyone who opposes you will be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us" (Titus 2:7-8). Here, Paul emphasizes the dual role of teaching sound doctrine and living a life that exemplifies those teachings.

Role of Church Leaders

Church leaders, such as pastors and elders, bear a particular responsibility to teach and model godliness. In 1 Timothy 3:2, Paul outlines the qualifications for overseers, stating, "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach." The ability to teach is coupled with a lifestyle that is above reproach, highlighting the integral connection between teaching and living out one's faith.

Furthermore, in 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul instructs Timothy, "And the things you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others." This passage illustrates the importance of passing on sound teaching to faithful individuals who will continue the cycle of teaching and modeling godliness.

The Role of Parents and Families

Parents are also called to be primary teachers and models of godliness within the family unit. Ephesians 6:4 advises, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This directive places the responsibility on parents to nurture their children in the faith, providing both instruction and a living example of godly conduct.

The Example of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of teaching and modeling godliness. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus is depicted as a teacher who not only imparts divine wisdom but also embodies the principles He teaches. In John 13:15, after washing His disciples' feet, Jesus states, "I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you." His life of humility, service, and obedience to the Father provides a perfect model for believers to emulate.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to integrate the teaching and modeling of godliness into every aspect of their lives. Colossians 3:16 exhorts, "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." This verse highlights the communal aspect of teaching and modeling godliness, where believers are to encourage and instruct one another in the faith.

In summary, the exhortation to teach and model godliness is a central theme in Scripture, calling believers to live lives that reflect the holiness of God and to instruct others in His ways. Through the examples of church leaders, parents, and ultimately Jesus Christ, the Bible provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and fulfilling this vital aspect of the Christian life.