Philippians 3:17 Brothers, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as you have us for an ensample.… Together with the rules of religion we must propound God's graces in us as examples for others to imitate. I. IMITATION IMPLIES FOUR THINGS. 1. A doing that which another doth. 2. A doing it in the same manner. 3. A doing thereof grounded on the same affections, not as in a play where the king is often a varlet; but as a child who endeavours to imitate the father in mind as well as body. 4. A doing with an earnest desire to be like Him: so we should desire to be like Christ, and only like others as they are like Him. II. HENCE WE MAY GATHER THE GROUND WHY WE HAVE NOT ONLY RULES IN SCRIPTURE BUT EXAMPLES. 1. They show that the things commanded are possible. 2. They show us the way and the means more plainly. 3. They show how graceful and acceptable they are when done. So the Scripture allures to obedience. III. USES. 1. We ought to follow others, and especially those who are above others. Then — (1) Reverence not only the eye of God, but of weak Christians. We are to be careful not to give them a bad example. (2) Deny yourselves in liberties, especially when we are in the presence of such as wilt take scandal. (3) Demean yourselves so as to respect those with whom you converse. Grace will teach us to honour the meanest. 2. If we are bound to give good example then woe to the world for offences. What shall become of those who wound and vex continually the hearts of those with whom they converse. 3. As we must give good example so we must endeavour to take good from other's example; and to this end — (1) We must study them. (2) Not to uncover their shame or weakness, for this is a poisonous disposition; but as we use glasses to see ourselves by. (3) We are to observe the best and not those who are inferior to us (1 Corinthians 4:16; 2 Corinthians 10:12). (4) We must learn truth before we practise, for the best have their blemishes. (5) We must labour to have hearts softened and sanctified by grace, for a stony heart will receive no impression. (6) We are to look to every one that hath any good thing worthy of imitation, as those who delight in gardens when they hear of any choice flowers, will have a slip for their own garden. When we see any choice flower of grace let us get a slip of it (Romans 1:12). (R. Sibbes, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. |
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