“Imitate Me As I Imitate Christ”

Paul and other apostles in the New Testament explicitly encourage others to imitate them as they imitate Christ. Paul, in particular, frequently uses this exhortation to point believers toward Christlike living, emphasising his own life as a model to follow. Below is a list of relevant passages:

Paul’s Calls to Imitation

1. 1 Corinthians 4:16

“Therefore I urge you to imitate me.”

Paul appeals to the Corinthians to follow his example as a spiritual father guiding them in the faith.

2. 1 Corinthians 11:1

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

Paul clarifies that his example is worth following only insofar as he imitates Christ.

3. Philippians 3:17

“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.”

Paul highlights the importance of modelling behaviour that aligns with the gospel.

4. Philippians 4:9

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Paul encourages believers to practice what they have observed in his life and teaching.

5. 1 Thessalonians 1:6

“You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.”

Paul praises the Thessalonians for following his example and that of the Lord, especially in enduring trials.

6. 2 Thessalonians 3:7-9

“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, labouring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.”

Paul points to his work ethic and self-sufficiency as an example for others to emulate.

Broader Calls to Imitation

While Paul explicitly says “imitate me” multiple times, the concept of imitation extends beyond him to include other apostles and Christ Himself:

1. Hebrews 13:7

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”

A general encouragement to follow the example of faithful leaders.

2. 1 Peter 5:3 (Indirect)

“Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

Peter instructs leaders to live as models for others to follow.

Why Paul Emphasized Imitation

Paul’s calls for imitation were not about elevating himself but about directing believers toward a Christ-centered life. His life demonstrated practical obedience to the gospel, perseverance through suffering, and reliance on God’s grace. By imitating him, believers could grow in their discipleship and reflect Christ more fully.

In total, Paul explicitly uses phrases about imitation about 6-7 times, with other apostles reinforcing the same principle.

BVP