As Christians, how can we effectively communicate and teach others what involves a Christian lifestyle? There are two ways to effectively teach others, and that is by our example and by direct instruction. Paul made it clear by his direct instruction that his foundation was his own example and his own lifestyle. That's why he wrote to the Corinthians to, 'Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.' (1 Cor. 11:1) And why he could also remind the Thessalonians, 'You are my witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous, and blameless we were among you who believe...' (1 Thess. 2:10)

To teach what is good means to demonstrate patience with a Christian lifestyle, and to be reverent. And in everything setting an example by doing what is right; integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned. So that those opposing you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about you. In other words, demonstrate with your life what you are trying to communicate. If you don't then what you are saying will be thrown right back in your face.

Paul approached teaching as 'show and tell'. Showing was always foundational to telling. In many respects the two come together, and cannot be separated. This is true because verbal teaching is a consistent life-style and Christian example; what people see over the long haul. As people come to know you, as they observe your consistancy and see your persistent love for Christ and others, your words will take on more and more significance. There's a saying that goes something like, 'You can't talk the talk, if you haven't walked the walk'. But in this aspect I will change that saying to, 'Don't talk the talk, unless you are walking the walk'!

Becoming teachable requires humility; admiting your flaws, mistakes, repenting of them before the Lord, forgiving yourself, and opening your mind and heart to change. In addition to, drawing from God's Word, praying, asking for His wisdom and strength to abide by the Word, and applying it to your life. All these things can help you become more and more teachable in your walk with Christ as you work towards that goal of changing your character to that of His. Becoming teachable also means bowing down in worship before your Father and allowing Him to work in your life through His Word, other Christians that can teach you, a preached message, or even in meditation in time of prayer.

God is always talking to us, through His Word, and other means. It's up to you to listen. My favorite time of day is when I come into fellowship with God in my prayer time. We must never forget to not only ask and seek His hands, but also to listen and seek His face.

Ask yourself:

1. How much are you living out of your life what you already know from the Bible?
2. What areas in your life do you feel you are putting into practice, good doctrine, to enable you to be a good example?
3. What areas of your life do you feel you are not putting into practice that would make you teachable?
4. Are you prideful or have a closed mind to the knowledge of Christ, or fellowship of other Christians?
5. Are you having problems with...
1. Having a forgiving spirit?
2. Being unselfish?
3. Controlling anger?
4. Overcoming worry?
5. Admitting mistakes?
6. Being consistent?

We cannot open ourselves up to others and share and teach what we hold inside if it does not edify the Lord Jesus Christ. We have to rethink and renew our minds to what example we are setting for our spouse, family, and all those we come into contact with. A constant renewal of the mind, repenting, and living the consistent Christian lifestyle, that our Father asks for, is the only thing that will bring us peace that we can show others and in turn glorify the Lord.

Jesus Christ called Himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11,14), and He is our supreme example of goodness. He is also our supreme example for teaching what is good. Remember Paul's words to the Corinthians when he said 'Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.' (1 Cor. 11:1) This should be every Christian's goal. We should be able with our life and words; invite others to follow as we follow and to reflect His goodness.

Remember, we can't teach what we don't know! How well do YOU know Jesus?