You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it. 1 Corinthians 16:15-16
“Pay attention to what has been written, so that you may save yourselves and the one who is your reader. As a reward, I ask that you repent from your whole heart, giving yourselves salvation and life. For when we do this we set a goal for those who are younger, who wish to devote themselves to the piety and generosity that comes from God.”
Clement of Rome (A.D. 35-99) in his Second Letter to the Corinthians 19:1b.
Some days we need to remind ourselves that our example inspires those after us to devote themselves to the piety and generosity that comes from God.
For example, in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he affirms the household of Stephanas. They were the first converts in the region. They devoted themselves to serving God’s people.
That illustrates that their example had a ripple effect and impacted others. In the words of Clement of Rome about 30 years later, their piety and generosity inspired others to follow suit.
Who is younger in your life for whom you can set an example of piety and generosity. Picture that person right now. What can you do to live our your faith with radical obedience to save yourself and them?