Scripture Passages
I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13, English Standard Version)
Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1, English Standard Version)
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. (Philippians 3:17, English Standard Version)
Introduction
As a reminder, we are considering how Jesus uses Exercise, Example, and Encouragement to strengthen us to overcome challenges. Yesterday we considered spiritual exercise, and we had excellent comments about the vital role spiritual exercise plays. Many of the commentators highlighted parallels between the benefits of physical exercise and the benefits of spiritual exercise. It appears that the obvious benefits of physical exercise help us to accept that spiritual exercise is also beneficial.
Today we turn our attention to the role that godly examples play in helping us to overcome challenges. When we view Jesus as our example there is no controversy about the benefits of following Him. However, the case for following other human examples is not always so straightforward.
To stimulate our discussion here are three assertions for debate. First, there is overwhelming scriptural support for the concept of following the godly example of others (past and present). Second, there is far less use of this resource by Christians today than there is of other resources (e.g., spiritual exercise). Third, pride, guilt, lack of community, and the publicized moral failures of prominent Christian leaders have negatively influenced the use of godly examples as a resource to overcome challenges.
Discussion
Prayerfully read the passages above. Do you have any thoughts on the above assertions about following godly examples? What are your thoughts on how the Holy Spirit uses godly examples to strengthen us?
February 19, 2026 at 5:30 am
The fantastic godly examples in the Bible like Paul, Moses, Job, Esther, Ruth and list can go on and on provide encouragement and motivation but are also challenging and convicting. They illustrate how we should live our lives and bring honor and glory to the Lord. Also, they show that they are human, have shortcomings and have made mistakes. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit who helps to follow, understand and appreciate the many Biblical godly examples.
February 19, 2026 at 7:07 am
Who’s qualified for me to imitate? Paul’s statement “Imitate me, just as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1), highlights that leaders should be followed only to the extent that they themselves are following Christ.
Because all human beings are sinful and imperfect, I need to use wisdom and discernment rather than blindly following.
The Spirit uses examples to strengthen us to model Christ-like characters,
encouraging endurance in trials, inspiring boldness and obedience, and
Illuminating scripture.
February 19, 2026 at 7:35 am
Imitate Christ. Imitate those who imitate Christ. The only way to know if a human is imitating Christ is to know the character of Christ. So I must own my exploration and understanding of Christ and by seeking the strength of the Holy Spirit to stay aligned to Christ character.
February 19, 2026 at 8:50 am
If the Bible speaks on following godly examples of others, it is to be considered and examined. Biblically, there are examples of how people like the disciples lived, which can give us encouragement. Following Christ obviously is #1, I believe in having trusted godly relationships in your life in which you can uplift, and commune with one another.
It is important to remind ourselves of who we are following and emulating, to ensure it never surpasses Jesus. Then again it is great to have great examples (people), PERSONALLY, in our lives to remind us that we are training and running in this race together and to ‘follow’ each other by continually pointing to Christ and letting our actions prove as evidence.
February 19, 2026 at 9:50 am
I agree that Scripture strongly supports following godly examples, both from the Bible and in our present lives. God intentionally preserved the stories of real people including their failures to teach, correct, and encourage us. We don’t live by bread alone but by every word from God, and that Word includes human examples shaped by Him.
Regarding the second point, I can see both sides. On one hand, many Christians today emphasize personal spiritual disciplines like prayer and Bible study. On the other hand, social media has made access to Christian voices more widespread than ever. However, not all of those voices are rooted in Scripture, and without a strong biblical foundation, it can be discouraging or confusing especially for newer believers. So while examples are available, they may not always be intentionally or wisely chosen.
As for the third point, pride, guilt, lack of community, and public moral failures can make people hesitant to follow human examples. But these struggles are not new they’re seen throughout Scripture. Instead of abandoning the idea of godly examples, we should evaluate them through the lens of Christ and Scripture. Ultimately, Jesus remains the standard, and human examples are meant to reflect Him, not replace Him.
February 19, 2026 at 11:59 am
Paul’s exhortations to imitate him (1Cor.11:1, Phil.3:17) are undeniable, as was I believe the practice of disciple-making in NT times (and some OT times also), students intently following or imitating their rabbis. Today’s culture would consider this cultish.
I do know some men whose lives serve as Godly examples to me, and these are of good value. But, I believe there is more to be gained by considering the prospect of, per Paul, personally making this invitation (to be imitated). My initial response at this prospect is to not be so arrogant as to point someone to me instead of directly to Christ. But once I get past this initial response, I can see my reluctance as more based on fear and avoidance. I want to avoid the accountability that such an explicit invitation to another would inevitably bring. And I am fearful that I will fall short.
These are sobering thoughts, which invite further prayerful reflection. It is certain that Paul’s ultimate motive is to point others to Christ VIA himself, but this is just as weighty, in fact it is the root of the weight! Thank God for His abundant grace(!) and His empowering Holy Spirit, and the truth that we are not called to attainable perfection, but merely to authentically pursue it, pursuing Him.
February 19, 2026 at 2:10 pm
I have not done any research to support this but I believe the written word was now coming into being and not widely available, nor was there a high level of literacy in that time. Rabbis literally taught and discipled their followers in the flesh. Jesus and his 12 disciples travelled and lived together. The disciples were able to see Jesus in private and in public which would really help to know whether he was authentic and a credible example to follow. All this to say, I believe the context weighs in heavily in this particular discussion.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13, English Standard Version). Paul is outwardly declaring and making himself publicly accountable to demonstrate the His faith in the power of God to carry him through his persecution. I feel that when I declare my dependence on God and this is apparent in my disposition and demeanour, words and actions, by His grace, I have proved to be a good example in that moment and seekers will ask without having to point out I am a good example to follow.
Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1, English Standard Version)
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. (Philippians 3:17, English Standard Version)
I will confess that while in principle I agree with Paul’s call to follow his real time example in that context, I am not comfortable using using His wording in calling attention to myself as an example to follow. I am more comfortable giving credit where credit is due when God’s grace enables me to witness to Him in my weakness and trials.
God gave us the written word precisely when He knew we would need it to protect ourselves from counterfeits and cults. Christ was, is and will forever the only perfect example and even the most godly follower/example will fall short. The true test is whether they follow Christ’s teachings when they fall short. For me, this is what will make them a credible example to emulate.
February 19, 2026 at 5:14 pm
This is a difficult one for me, as I find it hard to truly trust when people identify themselves as Christians. So often, people say they are Christian, but then hold such harmful beliefs that are in direct contradiction to Christ’s teachings.
I’m grateful to be in a family with such great examples of Christ, so I don’t need to look far to find people who embody His principles. However, I do believe I need to be more forgiving of when others make mistakes, as God can use people in diverse ways to be an example or witness. No one can be the perfect example.
February 19, 2026 at 6:21 pm
I admire Ruth. At this time of my life where I have to take care of my mother in law who just turned 91 last Tuesday, 2/17, I feel I need the patience and caring ways Ruth exemplified in the Bible. Of course Jesus is the one to give us the best example to emulate at all times, but it is also inspiring having to know some of the stories of men and women in the Bible who gave us examples of how to really love and care for others, as well as reminders of how it is to have a true relationship with God.
February 20, 2026 at 10:35 am
I do think scripture has given us christians many godly examples through Jesus and also through others such as disciples to ultimately guide us towards sharing and reflecting His love and grace.
Personally, godly examples are extremely motivating as they push me towards being more Christ-like in how I act, react and present myself.
When it comes to godly examples such as Church leaders I think it’s important to have discernement and to remember that Jesus the ultimate standard who we are called to follow.