1 Corinthians 11:1-2 Be you followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.… In these words we have — I. THE PRINCIPLE ON WHICH THE CHARACTERS OF MOST MEN ARE FORMED. Men are imitative beings, and from a law of their nature those whom they most admire, and with whom they most associate, they become like in spirit and in character. The request of Paul at first sight seems somewhat arrogant, "Be ye followers of me." No man has a right to make such an unqualified claim. Hence Paul puts the limitation, "Even as I also am of Christ." The apostle undoubtedly refers to the preceding verses, in which he speaks of himself as not seeking his own pleasure or profit, but that of others. This Christ did. He "pleased not Himself." He means to say, Be like me as I in this respect resemble Christ. Here is the principle that should regulate our imitation of men; imitate them just so far as they resemble Christ. Children should not imitate their parents, pupils their teachers, congregations their ministers, save so far as they resemble Christ. II. A COMMENDATION OF MERIT WHICH MANY ARE RELUCTANT TO RENDER (ver. 2). In some things, then, some of the Corinthians pleased Paul. There was much in them at which he found fault, but so far as they did the proper thing he praises them. To render generously credit where credit is due, is the characteristic of a great soul, but one which most men are reluctant to perform. A wife will go on lovingly attending to the wants and wishes of her husband, and perhaps not from one year to another does she receive from him one word of hearty commendation. So with servants and masters, and ministers and their congregations. (D. Thomas, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. |
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