1 Corinthians 11:1, Follow Me as I Follow Christ
1 Corinthians 11:1 (KJV) 1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
The word “follower” literally means “imitator”, one who follows another’s example. The Apostle Paul sets himself a follow of Christ, an example for the Christians in Corinth, to follow. He was one given over to Christ, a vessel fully surrendered for His Master’s use. He uses the phrase a “bond-slave” to describe his relationship with Jesus.
Philippians 3:7-8 (KJV) 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
Solomon’s words described well the secret of the Apostle Paul’s confidence came from his obedience to God’s law – Proverbs 3:1-4 (KJV) 1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: 2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. 3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: 4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
Why did he have that boldness to set himself as an example? Because he has been one under authority. After he was saved, it was Ananias whom God used to bring him into the fellowship of the church, gave him his sight and baptised him. It was Barnabas who brought him to Antioch where he was sent for the mission work beyond Antioch. He has always subjected himself to the order and discipline of the church of Jesus Christ. His actions were for the welfare and good of the believers in Corinth, not for personal gains. This is his confidence before God and men. Amen.