1 John 2:6 He that said he stays in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. I. IN WHAT RESPECTS CHRIST IS AN EXAMPLE TO CHRISTIANS AND THEY ARE TO IMITATE HIM. Christ is only our example as to those things that are common between Him and us, but not as to those in which we can have no participation with Him or He with us. His part was to become our mediator with God. II. HOW SUITABLE AN EXAMPLE CHRIST IS TO US AND HOW EXPEDIENT IT IS FOR US TO HAVE SUCH AN EXAMPLE. 1. The example of Christ is exceedingly suitable to mankind. (1) From the humanity of it. (2) The notoriety of Christ's example makes it fit for general use. The most exemplary transactions of His holy life are transmitted to us in exact narratives. (3) His example was very extensive. It either directly exemplifies or contains a lively instruction into the duties of almost every station and relation in human life. (4) Christ's example is absolutely perfect. 2. How very expedient it is for mankind to have such an example set before them. (1) This use and expediency appears in that it tends to impress the mind with a strong sense of the reasonableness and excellency of that universal rectitude which the law requires, and to guard us against light and favourable thoughts of any deviation or iniquity. (2) It still adds more weight to this use of Christ's example, to consider the Divinity of His person. In this way God has glorified a state of obedience to Himself. III. THE OBLIGATIONS AND ENGAGEMENTS WHICH CHRISTIANS ARE UNDER TO IMITATE THIS SO SUITABLE AND EXPEDIENT EXAMPLE. This is the natural tendency of all Christian graces; so that where they are in truth they cannot but work this way, and otherwise they are only in appearance, not in reality. (John Hubbard.) Parallel Verses KJV: He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.WEB: he who says he remains in him ought himself also to walk just like he walked. |
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