Follow Me as I Follow

This infographic encapsulates the biblical principle of modeling as the primary method of teaching. The graphic portrays a clear hierarchy and sequence of influence within the family—(and among friends), starting with the husband following Christ, the wife following her husband, and the children following their parents. The simplicity of the image illustrates profound truths about biblical leadership, influence, and emulation.

The Power of Modeling
The principle that “modeling must precede teaching” aligns with Scripture’s call for Christians to embody the gospel in word and deed. Words without action lose credibility and power. Jesus Himself modeled servant leadership (Matthew 10:45), and Paul consistently exhorted others to imitate him as he imitated Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Biblical modeling of the gospel must precede our teaching about the gospel or an inferior imitation of Christ will discredit our teaching.

When our lives align with the truth we profess, the visual example reinforces the verbal teaching, creating a coherent message. Conversely, hypocrisy—a disconnect between actions and words—sabotages our message. This truth is particularly potent in the family structure, where children learn more from what they observe than from what they are told. Modeling sets the tone for teaching, helping children understand the gospel in practice.

While perfection is unattainable, Christians are called to model repentance, which is itself a teaching tool. When parents humbly acknowledge their failures and demonstrate repentance, they teach their children how to navigate sin, mistakes, and reconciliation. Repentance is the bridge between imperfection and transformation, showcasing the ongoing work of the gospel in our lives.

One of the best examples an offender can give to the offended is their humble example of repentance after they sin against them.

Hierarchy and Order in the Family
This infographic also illustrates the New Testament’s teaching on family order. While all individuals are equal in value as God’s image-bearers (Genesis 1:27), biblical roles exist within the family to promote unity, functionality, and Christlikeness (Ephesians 5:22-25).

1. The Husband: As the head of the family (Ephesians 5:23), the husband’s responsibility is to lead by example, following Christ in humility, love, and self-sacrifice. His spiritual leadership should encourage trust and obedience.
2. The Wife: Submitted to her husband as to the Lord (Ephesians 5:22), the wife’s role is to follow her husband’s godly example while also fulfilling her biblical responsibilities to nurture the home.
3. The Children: Called to obey their parents in the Lord (Ephesians 6:1), children learn first and foremost from their parents’ lives, following their example as their primary spiritual teachers.

The call to imitate Christ applies to every member of the family (Ephesians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:21). Each role contributes to the maturity of the home and the effectiveness of its witness to the gospel.

Case Study: Biff’s Hypocrisy and Family Dynamics

Background
Biff insists that his children follow Christ, but his lifestyle tells a different story. His actions contradict his words, leading his children to view Christianity as hypocritical. Biff relies heavily on the church to disciple his children, failing to grasp that the home is the primary shaping influence in a child’s life. His inconsistent leadership damages his credibility and erodes the family’s spiritual direction.

Problems in Biff’s Approach

1. Hypocritical Leadership: Biff demands obedience to Christ from his children but does not model it himself. His actions may include anger, apathy, or neglecting spiritual disciplines.
2. Outsourcing Discipleship: By delegating spiritual training to the church, Biff overlooks the biblical principle that parents, particularly fathers, bear the primary responsibility for their children’s instruction (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Ephesians 6:4).
3. Missed Opportunities for Repentance: Biff does not model repentance when he sins, leaving his children without a biblical framework for addressing their own failings.

Steps for Biff to Change

1. Confess and Repent: Biff must acknowledge his hypocrisy before God, his wife, and his children. Genuine repentance will include sorrow over his sin, asking for forgiveness, and committing to change.
2. Reprioritize the Home: Biff needs to recognize the home as the primary shaping influence for his children. He should initiate family worship, pray with his family, and intentionally disciple his children daily.
3. Model Christlikeness: Biff’s walk with Christ must become evident to his family. His words and actions should align with the gospel, demonstrating humility, love, and servant leadership.

Mable’s Role in Helping Biff

While Mable is called to submit to her husband (Ephesians 5:22), she also has the biblical responsibility to speak truth to him in love (Galatians 6:1). As Biff’s equal in Christ, Mable can support his transformation in the following ways:

1. Encouragement: Mable should encourage Biff in his spiritual growth, affirming his steps toward Christlikeness.
2. Confrontation: Mable must lovingly confront Biff’s hypocrisy, pointing him to Scripture. She can emphasize the importance of modeling repentance and leading the family spiritually.
3. Support: Mable can pray for Biff, participate actively in family discipleship, and partner with him to create a gospel-centered home.

Conclusion

The greatest gift parents can give their children is a life that reflects the gospel. The infographic’s message highlights the power of modeling over mere teaching, showing how every family member plays a role in emulating Christ. For Biff, repentance and intentionality will transform his influence in the home, while Mable’s role as a supportive and truth-speaking partner will help him fulfill his God-given responsibilities. Together, they can create a family culture that mirrors Christ, allowing their children to see and experience the gospel firsthand.

Peace,
Rick