1 Corinthians 11:1 “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.”
To imitate a person is to do what they do. It is like walking in someone’s shoes or someone’s footprints. The NIV translates 1 Corinthians 11:1 to say, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” The Apostle Paul was so confident in his walk with the Lord that he could tell others to walk in his shoes. If the Corinthians wanted to know how to conduct themselves as Christians, they had to look no further than the Apostle Paul.
He not only told the Corinthians to follow his example, but he told the Philippians to follow his example. He wrote in Philippians 3:17 “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”
Are you following Christ and His teaching so closely that you can say walk in my shoes and you will be more like Christ? Are you giving people an example of Christ-like living?
One other quick thought regarding being an example is for us to be reminded of Paul’s challenge (instructions) to Timothy to be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” As well Paul commended Timothy for following certain aspects of his life in 2 Timothy 3:10 saying, “But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, 11 persecutions, afflictions,”
Make the commitment to be an example that others can “walk in your shoes” and be closer to Jesus and more like Jesus.
A few other 11/1 verses:
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Luke 11:1 Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
Proverbs 11:1 Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, But a just weight is His delight.
Ecclesiastes 11:1 Cast your bread upon the waters, For you will find it after many days.
Continue Strong being an example,
And remember to DATE The Word!