Philippians 3:17
“Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul invites them to imitate his example and to watch those who live by the same pattern.
What Does Philippians 3:17 Mean?
Paul calls the Philippians to follow his example together and to take note of those who walk according to the pattern he and his companions have set before them.
This is a bold but not arrogant appeal. Paul can point to his own life as a model precisely because he has just confessed he has not arrived but presses on; the pattern he offers is one of humble, wholehearted pursuit of Christ. He also directs them to others who live the same way, so they are not left without living examples. People learn by imitation, and Paul knows the value of a life that can be watched and followed. He does not ask them to admire him but to walk as he walks, fixing their eyes on those who run the race faithfully, all of them following Christ together.