Examples to Imitate

“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 … you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.”—1 Thessalonians 1:6–7 NIV

Paul reminded these Thessalonians that Christianity was a lifestyle. Following Jesus should make a practical difference in their lives. As they learned what it meant to follow Him, Paul reminded these believers that they “became imitators of us and of the Lord.”

They learned by watching Paul and listening to his words, using them as models. This was a practical way in which they grew and matured. They could see how they were to live.

Paul provided an example of hard work and commitment. It was a lifestyle pleasing to God: “You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed” (1 Thessalonians 2:9).

Paul displayed the kind of care and compassion God desired. He had dealt with them “as a father deals with his own children.” He had encouraged them and urged them “to live lives worthy of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:11–12).

This imitation process was important for them, and as their lives were being transformed, they became a model for other believers to observe, study, and imitate.

But this perspective also implied a warning to realize how easily we can follow the wrong examples. We need to be careful whom we imitate.

Remember that others are observing your life. What kind of example will you be for them? As others study your life, will they be drawn closer to God by imitating you?

Reflection Question: What kind of behavior would others do if they were imitating you?