The perfect Teacher not only taught what is right; He also showed us what is right.
After Jesus washed His disciples’ feet in John 13, He said “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (verse 15). Washing His disciples’ feet exemplified selflessness, meekness, humility, and servitude. He preached the importance of these principles on a number of occasions. In John 13, He “practiced what He preached.”
One of the greatest hindrances to leading others to salvation is the hypocrisy of some who do not practice what they preach. People who “say, and do not” (Matt. 23:3) are harmful to seed that is sown among non-believers.
We cannot control the actions of all who claim to be Christians, but each of us can (and must) control our own actions to ensure that we are truly a Christ-like example. May we live in such a way that we, like Jesus, shine bright for the benefit of others and the glory of God (cf. Matt. 5:14-16).
– Michael Hickox