How Should We Imitate Paul? - Part 1

1 Corinthians 4:16-17

 

Paul does not send Timothy to simply lay out doctrine.  He sends him to show the Church how to apply doctrine -- how to live it out.  Don Carson writes, "This suggests that the Christian leader today not only must teach the gospel, but also must teach how the gospel works out in daily life and conduct. And that union must be modeled as well as explained." [1]  The most important application of Scriptural truth is apply the truth to practical Gospel living.  This is why Paul would write to the Church at Ephesus and encourage them, “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,” (Ephesians 4:1, ESV).

 

Therefore, when Paul calls the Church to imitate him, he has a specific function in mind.  He is saying, "Just as I live out the implications of the Gospel, you do the same thing."   

 

So what does that mean in practical terms?   What does it mean to live a life consistent with the Gospel?   Part 2 will continue the conversation.

 

 

 

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1.  Carson, D. A. (2004-02-01). Cross and Christian Ministry, The: An Exposition of Passages from 1 Corinthians (Kindle Locations 1800-1801). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.