A Christian you Never Hear About

Introduction

1.    There are many “unsung” heroes you don’t know

2.    Frank Wills – brought down a president

3.    James Harrison – rare blood type – donated over 1,000 times – saved more than 2 million babies

4.    Alfred Fielding invented bubble wrap

5.    John Walker invented matches

6.    Clarence Birdseye – method to freeze food.

7.    NT names 348 individuals – We think of Jesus and apostles

Gaius – All we know of him is found in 3 John v. 1-3

1.    Gaius lived a righteous life

a.    He walked in truth – v.3

b.    He lived it.

c.    He was consistent in it

d.    He did not preach cream and live skim milk

2.    Gaius practiced what he preached

a.    Not sure if he was a preacher (public speaker)

b.    Edgar Guest poem (see below)

c.    We should be people by whom truth is held

3.    People saw him and talked about him – v. 3

a.    Kept a good reputation

b.    Wicked world – immorality everywhere

c.    But Gaius walked in the truth

d.    No telephone, internet, Facebook, Twitter

e.    But many knew of him.

f.     Acts 16:2 – about Timothy – well reported of

4.    Gaius was hospitable – v. 5-6

a.    Galatians 6:10

b.    John prayed that he would prosper and be in health

c.    Gaius used what resources he had to help others

5.    Gaius supported mission work – v. 6-8

a.    Jesus sent out 70 – Luke 10:1

b.    Church sent missionaries – Acts 13:1-3

6.    How to be a Gaius

a.    Build a good reputation

                                          i.    Respect yourself and others

                                        ii.    Keep you word

                                       iii.    Watch your tongue

                                       iv.    Be pure in heart

                                        v.    Live up to standards

b.    Maintain a good reputation

From tract by Allen Webster

I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day;

I’d rather one would walk with me than merely point the way. 

The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear;

Fine counsel is confusing but example’s always clear.

The best of all the preachers and the ones who live their creed,

For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you let me see it done.

I can watch your hands in action but your tongue too fast may run.

And the sermon you deliver may be very wise and true,

But I’d rather get my lesson by observing what you do.

For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give.

But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.