Words and Actions

Leading by example is a simple principle to understand, but it’s a very difficult one to live. The prophets were often called to lead by example, though doing so usually meant enduring suffering for others.

“And the word of Yahweh came to me [Ezekiel], saying, ‘Son of man, you are dwelling in the midst of the house of rebellion who has eyes to see and they do not see; they have ears to hear, and they do not hear, for they are a house of rebellion. And you, son of man, prepare for yourself the baggage of an exile, and go into exile by day before their eyes. And you must go into exile from your place to another place before their eyes; perhaps they will see that they are a house of rebellion’ ” (Ezekiel 12:1-3).

By witnessing God’s servant suffering, the people would be reminded of their rebellion and understand the gravity of God’s displeasure. In this situation, God prescribes exile as their punishment for rebelling against His requirements and forfeiting His calling for their lives. God’s prophet, Ezekiel, “pronounces” God’s punishment through actions. In doing so, he becomes a type of sufferer for the people. He does not deserve their punishment, and he does not pay it for them, but he demonstrates the price of sin as he leads by example.

There is a time for words and a time for action. We all would do well to heed the words before the actions become necessary. We must also understand that, in our desire to emulate Christ, there are times we must go beyond warnings or advice and commit to bearing the burden for others—even suffering undeservedly on their behalf. We must show others what it means to follow Christ by acting as Christ would—giving unmerited grace even when it is costly.

Adapted and modified excerpts from Connect the Testaments
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the Lexham English Bible, LEB © 2012 by Logos Bible Software.
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