The Apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 11:1 are both simple and striking:

“Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (NASB).

These are not the boastful words of an arrogant man but the humble challenge of one who has aligned his life with Christ. This was not the first time Paul issued such an invitation; he spoke similarly in 1 Corinthians 4:16, Philippians 3:17, 4:9, and 1 Thessalonians 1:6. Yet, in my decades of walking with Christ, I have rarely heard a pastor or leader make such a direct call to others to follow their example. Why is this?

Perhaps the hesitation lies in the vulnerability it requires. To issue such a challenge is to willingly place oneself under a magnifying glass, open to scrutiny. Or maybe it stems from doubt—do we truly live lives worth imitating? Jonathan Edwards resolved to “never do anything which I would be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life,” understanding that our example speaks loudly to those around us. How would we respond if our leaders encouraged us to imitate their lives as they follow Christ?

To understand Paul’s declaration fully, we must consider its context. The chapter division between 1 Corinthians 10 and 11 is somewhat artificial; 11:1 rightly concludes the thought of the preceding verses. Paul’s call to imitation is not abstract; it flows from his teaching in 1 Corinthians 10:31–33, where he outlines three imperatives for a Christ-centered life:

Live a Life That Glorifies God: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, BSB). Paul’s primary concern is that every aspect of life, no matter how ordinary, reflects the greatness of God. To glorify God is to make His character known, to magnify Him through our actions, words, and choices. Can we say that every arena of our lives-from work to leisure, from family to community-shines with the light of Christ?

Live Humbly, Without Offense: “Do not become a stumbling block, whether to Jews or Greeks or the church of God” (1 Corinthians 10:32, BSB). Paul emphasizes humility and sensitivity toward others. This is not a call to compromise the truth but to live with a gentle and respectful spirit, mindful of how our actions impact others. To imitate Paul here is to adopt a posture of selflessness, always seeking to uplift and encourage rather than hinder or offend.

Live to Benefit Others, Not Yourself: “Even as I try to please everyone in every way, for I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved” (1 Corinthians 10:33, BSB). Paul’s life was marked by a relentless pursuit of others’ spiritual welfare. His personal comfort or preferences took a back seat to his mission to lead others to Christ. This call to selflessness challenges us to shift our focus from personal gain to the eternal good of those around us.

Yet Paul’s invitation has a deeper layer. He does not simply call the Corinthians to imitate him in isolation but as he imitates Christ. As Leon Morris wisely notes, “His example points them to the Savior.” Paul’s life was a reflection of the One he followed, a life shaped by the cross. To imitate Paul is ultimately to imitate Christ, the perfect example of humility, love, and obedience.

This is the life all Christians—especially leaders—are called to pursue. Our goal is not to draw others to ourselves but to Christ. As we walk near the cross, we create a path that others can follow.

Can we pray today, “Lord, help me live so that others can see You in me”? May our lives be mirrors of Christ’s glory, humility, and love, inviting others to imitate Him as well.

Cross References:

• John 13:15: “I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.”
• Philippians 2:5: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”
• 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.”

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