“Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear” (1 Pet. 3:1). Wives were not required to be eloquent in speech or powerful in argument. Rather, the victory was “without a word.” Learn well this truth: tremendous impact is often made “without a word,” rather it stems from your "conduct accompanied by fear.” This concept is not peculiar to wives—but for all.
Notice! Scripture does not say that people are taught without a word. This is never done. A good example can never answer the question, “What must I do to be saved?” A good example can never explain who Jesus is, or how to worship, or dozens of other vital truths. Words are necessary vehicles for teaching. All spiritual instruction is solely by teaching scripture—there is no possible alternative. This scripture says that people may be won—not taught—by a good example. And they may also be lost by a bad example. Actions are powerful!
It is often impossible to overcome the impact of a bad example. One might think of you, “You mean that old reprobate goes to church—is supposed to be a Christian? I know him. He is a scoundrel.” What just happened to your teaching opportunity? Their answer will inevitably be, “Don't talk to me about becoming a Christian!” An eloquent, preacher is defeated—his every appeal nullified—“without a word.” For practical purposes, God's powerful truth is rendered virtually useless—all “without a word.” Even worse, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you…” (Rom. 2:24). Bad conduct defames God, and makes His name a byword—all “without a word.” Bad actions and bad examples destroy.
For practical purposes, God’s powerful truth is rendered virtually useless—all “without a word”. Even worse, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you...” (Rom. 2:24).
Bad conduct defames God, and makes His name a byword—all “without a word.” Bad actions and bad examples destroy.
On the other hand, it is hard to overestimate the power of good examples—people behaving like Christians. “Demetrius has a good testimony from all, and from the truth itself…”(3 John 12). Such men are great helpers. They are “lights” in the world that “cannot be hidden” (Matt. 5:14). Their impact is compelling. People see their “good works” and “glorify” the “Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). As lights, they may say little, they may not win debates, and they may not boast great things. However, like godly wives, they exhibit excellent “conduct.” Such people quietly open doors and open hearts to receive the word. Plainly, they win souls—“without a word!”
People who manifest hope break down the resistance of lost men—without having to preach a sermon on hope. Early pagans watched Christians bury their dead—without the dirges of those who “have no hope” (1 Thess. 4:13). They were puzzled hearing mourners sing songs of expectation and joy on the way to a grave. They were impressed—they were amazed by what they saw. All “without a word” of preaching. Still, pagans see Christians grow old and die without despair—serene even in death. Pagans watch Christians cope with suffering and heartbreak—joy still twinkling in their eyes. It is compelling! Pagans may say, “How do they do that? I want to know about those people.” They inquire, opening the door to learning. The Christians' conduct, rather than their doctrine, often draws them. They are captivated by the obvious demonstration of hope—the “anchor of the soul” (Heb. 6:19). They are “won” – “without a word” so that they may be saved by the word (1 Pet. 1:22-25; Jas. 1:21)!
Christianity depends on people who walk the walk!
— Joe Price