Third in a series of studies of Paul’s instruction to Timothy
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
As it is with “be an example in word,” so it is with “be an example in conduct.” This command has to do with Timothy’s behavior—that is, with the way Timothy lives his life every day.
The original King James Version uses the word “conversation” here, meaning “manner of life.” So, Timothy is to practice what he preaches. He is to demonstrate to those around him that he believes what he is preaching enough to live accordingly.
Following this teaching obviously required Timothy to bolster his faith enough so that he could withstand the temptations the devil placed in his pathway. It required restraint on his part. It required devotion to God. It required self-discipline.
While this command is to a young preacher, other scriptures place the same requirement on every faithful child of God. And, if we are to please God and attain the goal of Heaven, we, too, must exercise restraint, devote ourselves to God, and discipline ourselves to live as God directs in His Word.
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