At the conclusion of this morning’s epistle, St. Paul writes something profound, “Therefore, I urge you, imitate me” (1st Cor. 4:16). Later in this same epistle he reiterates but expands upon his statement, “Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ” (11:1).
Although his remark is bold, Paul was not bragging, but challenging believers to carefully examine our Savior’s life, and emulate it as he was trying to do.
In ancient times, students were expected to imitate their teachers as part of their training, and teachers were expected to hold themselves to a higher standard. Thus, to truly imitate Christ, one must be intimate with Him, fully knowing His nature, character, and way of life.
In the original Greek, the verb translated as “imitate” is mimetai and means “a person who copies the words and behaviors of another.” It is the root of the English word mimic. Therefore, being a Christian entails strict adherence to the parameters of Jesus’ teachings and following in His footsteps. We don’t change, alter, or redefine things to suit us. We forego our own way, to follow Jesus, who is the True Way.
