Find someone who imitates Jesus. Imitate them. And others will imitate you. 

Notes And Next Steps

Philippians 3:17-21  + Part 5 of the series “Be Happy."

“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” (Philippians 3:17)

Paul contrasts himself with many who “live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” (Philippians 3:18,19)

Paul holds himself up as a premier example of one who could trust his own pedigree and performance.

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20,21).

Who are you imitating?

Who is imitating you?

“conformed to the image of his Son” (Romans 8:29)

Discussion Questions

1. It’s an invitation we’ve heard Paul offer time and again in his letters to the church. What is it? (1 Corinthians 4:16; 11:1; Philippians 3:17; 4:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; and 2 Thessalonians 3:9.)
2. Tell about a Christian who has mentored or modeled the faith for you. How are you more like Jesus because of their example?
3. Read 3 John 11. How does this apply to A) a teenager being influenced by bad behaving friends, B) a young adult looking for spiritual direction, and C) decisions at work where peer pressure expects (assumes) immoral behavior.
4. Listen to the song, or look up the lyrics, of Christian artist Zach Williams singing “Less Like Me.” What are some words or phrases that inspire you to become a better Jesus impersonator?