1 Thessalonians 1:6-7. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

Being an ensample is more than just being an example.  An ensample is a sample that someone can taste.  Are you the kind of Christian people can taste and see that you are good?  It is almost like people taste test a Christian to see if he is living right and doing what they expect him to do. 

When we become followers of the Lord, go through affliction in our life, and then have joy about it, we can encourage others to do the same.  A good ensample can affect a whole town, and even a whole state, like the Christians in Macedonia did.  We need to realize that a lot of people are watching us as Christians.  Our testimony is vitally important to keep clean and without blame so that we can draw others to Christ.

A young man in the church can be an ensample to the young teens and little boys.  An old man can help younger fathers.  A young woman can be an ensample to a little girl.  Even a little boy or a little girl can be an ensample to a younger sibling.  Everyone is likely teaching someone something with their life.  They are teaching good or they are teaching bad.

Paul said that the Macedonians were teaching others by first following God’s men.  They became followers of “us”, as Paul said.  Secondly they became followers of Christ.  That seems out of order, but the first impression of Jesus Christ that most will see is in the saints of God.  It is not until we introduce someone to Christ that they then follow him.  The third thing we see in following is that it was in much affliction.  Our trials, and Christ bearing us up through them, will lead others to Christ.  Last of all, there is joy in the life of the believer that will draw others to Christ.  A sweet and caring spirit will draw men and women to you, and ultimately to Christ.  Are you a good ensample of Christ.  Let’s hope so.