Monday, June 11, 2007
Why, in verse 1, does Paul say to "follow my example, just as I (he) follow the example of Christ"? I suppose it is because Paul had known Jesus and he understood the importance of having a mentor whom you know first-hand that you can follow and aspire to be like.
I think this holds true for us today as well. Whether in a formal program or not, it is wise for us all to have mentors whom we can watch and learn from. In my life, I currently have several string spiritual menotrs. My main "business" mentor over the years has been my father although there have been a few others passing in and out of my life as well, often only for a season. There is also a gentleman by the name of Bob Chapman who heads up the Sandler Sales Training franchise I am associated with. Bob has been a great mentor of mine in recent years.
Normally we think of a mentor as being someone older than ourselves. I am currently reading a book which also talks about "reverse mentoring" which involves having a mentor who is younger than yourself who is willing to give you the "younger generation's" perspective on things. That is an incredibly neat idea that I think we would all benefit from as well.
I think this holds true for us today as well. Whether in a formal program or not, it is wise for us all to have mentors whom we can watch and learn from. In my life, I currently have several string spiritual menotrs. My main "business" mentor over the years has been my father although there have been a few others passing in and out of my life as well, often only for a season. There is also a gentleman by the name of Bob Chapman who heads up the Sandler Sales Training franchise I am associated with. Bob has been a great mentor of mine in recent years.
Normally we think of a mentor as being someone older than ourselves. I am currently reading a book which also talks about "reverse mentoring" which involves having a mentor who is younger than yourself who is willing to give you the "younger generation's" perspective on things. That is an incredibly neat idea that I think we would all benefit from as well.
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1 Comments:
Hi Todd.
1 Corinthians 11:1 in the NIV has Paul saying " Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." In the Message, Paul speaks of how pleased he is that Corinth continues to remember and honour him by keeping the traditions of the faith he taught them. (para.).
As to following his example, from the scripture above, I believe Paul is asking the Corinthian believers to look at how Paul's spiritual walk is in line with his teaching of God's Good News in Christ. And in seeing how he lives out that truth which he teaches, they would know the way they should live in accordance with right doctrine and the Grace of God.
Yes, we can learn from 'mentors', but they must adhere to and live out right doctrine. As the epistle to Corinth shows, there was much argument over mentors and foolish doctrinal rubbish because believers were not holding to the truth nor living it.
And so Paul's asking the believers to imitate him is based on right doctrine, the living out and growth of their faith and understanding that which truly matters. Correctly living by and following true biblical doctrine which leads to an ongoing trust in God and Christ Jesus.
Just a few words.
God Bless you and your ministry.
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