Walking According To The Example

“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things” (Phil 3.17-19 ESV).


In the preceding verses Paul described the mindset by which he lived his life. He intended on reaching the goal, and was willing to suffer to acquire the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Those who are mature have an attitude like Paul’s.

Verse 17 focuses on the importance of choosing the correct people to emulate. There are many who do not live according to the commandments given by God. Paul calls them “enemies of the cross.” These individuals set out to please themselves and do things their way. But the very thing they glory in will be their shame. The wicked focus on earthly matters rather than spiritual. But all that matters in the end is our relationship with God. Rather than imitating the materialistically minded people of the world, our examples should be those who set their minds on things above(Col 3.1-2).