1 Peter 2:21
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Christ suffered in place of believers to bear their sins and open the way of forgiveness, and those who are called are called to follow closely in his steps by patiently enduring suffering for doing right and for truth's sake. Following him means doing no sin and speaking no deceit, refusing to revile, threaten, or take vengeance when wronged, but committing the cause to God who judges righteously. It means walking as he walked in perfect obedience to the Father's law, including keeping the seventh-day Sabbath as he did by worship, teaching, and doing good. Christ alone is the perfect and safe pattern, rather than any erring person, and his example is to be copied closely day by day in humility, meekness, patience, mercy, prayer, self-denial, and compassionate service to others. Those who so follow through trial and affliction cannot do it in human strength but through his help as merciful High Priest, and those who suffer with him will reign with him in glory.
Call to Follow Suffering
The calling is to follow the steps of Christ by patiently enduring suffering, especially suffering wrongfully while doing right and for truth's sake, taking his suffering life as the standard of conduct. He was sinless and without deceit, magnified the law's precepts, did not answer reviling with reviling or insist on his rights, did not threaten when suffering, but committed himself to God who judges righteously and let his life refute abuse and false accusation. His sufferings bore sins in his body on the tree so that those who died to sins might live unto righteousness and be healed by his stripes, and those who follow were once straying like sheep but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of souls.
The calling includes everyday duties of honoring all, loving fellow believers, fearing God, honoring the king, and servants submitting with respect to masters not only good and gentle but also harsh, since those who belong to Christ are really serving Christ in such service. Doing well and suffering grief wrongfully with patience for conscience toward God is acceptable with God, and such unjust suffering is to be expected as showing the faith and character of Christ within. Enduring wrongful suffering while doing good does not approve the wrong inflicted, whether on Christ who suffered wrongfully or on servants, and it is to be borne without resentment or demand for applause as testing faith and revealing love and righteousness. Rather than shrinking from responsibility from fear of consequences, hardship accepted patiently while doing right can teach humility and prepare for the kingdom of heaven.
The word rendered example is a writing-copy such as a teacher sets for pupils to write after, to be imitated closely stroke by stroke in every part of life. His steps are to be found and to guide those who find them, and they are not the physical places walked in the flesh such as the limestone of Olivet, the path to Jacob's well, the hill at Nazareth, or Bethany, but his example and spirit to be imitated by true disciples. Knowing where his steps are is necessary, but taking care where one's own feet go is even more important, for following means making it daily food to do the will of him that sent him and to finish his work, seeking not one's own will but the will of the Father, keeping the eye on Jesus and following exactly as by a square pattern. Even though the footsteps are marked with blood and the way leads through Gethsemane, following goes on forgetful of self and mindful of the One who goes before, in complete surrender, self-abnegation, crucifixion of flesh and self-forgetfulness unto oneness with God rather than exhibition or self-exaltation.
Suffering under fiery trial is what Christians are called to, and trial to prove them is not strange but part of heritage, to be met with rejoicing as partaking with Christ. The calling applies especially when the end is at hand and the hour of judgment is come, in last days of special peril with every wind of doctrine, spiritual darkness, false prophets, Satan as an angel of light, persecution of those honoring God's law, lying wonders, and a flood of iniquity culminating in temptation such as the world has never seen. Even the most faithful may face severe trials, for faithfulness does not spare from hardship, and temptation and opposition have always been the lot of those following his footsteps, whose path may grow steeper without turning to an easier way. Opposition and abuse endured while laboring for others' salvation walks the path he trod before, in contrast to expedient denial that later gives place to faithfulness even unto death by the cross.
His footprints mark the way through temptation and sorrow, for he was tempted in every way, fought the enemy, and endured anguish while alone yet not abandoned, and he does not send followers where he was unwilling to go himself. The bloody footprints mark a steep difficult way, and following them step by step means trusting his love even when hardship and danger make the way seem wrong, keeping gaze on him without side step, for even a side step from his example can lead to a fall. He knows the dangers and difficulties and will not lead further or faster than can be safely followed, and enduring tribulation on the path he trod gives courage to hope to the end with assurance that this path leads home to God and on to endless day.
His suffering is an example to share in, with desire for the hardship of the path he walked rather than ease or glory apart from him. The same self-denial calls to act faithfully when conscience requires rebuking a brother and to bear the resulting opposition, as he endured the contradiction of sinners against himself. Suffering for faith can be received as honor and opportunity to walk in his steps, leading to giving the rest of life to serving the Lord.
His path is the one believers are called to walk, following his example in his footsteps, willing even to suffer for his sake and living by the teachings of his word. His holy life and godly example call to follow, including faithfully preaching the gospel and all God's counsel without being silenced by fear, persecution, or prejudice. Following means standing firm and brave, resisting fear and sin after his example, loving righteousness and not being content merely to escape condemnation, so that in his strength believers rise above sorrow, gain strength through temptation, and learn discipline through pain. Following means walking in his footsteps even when it brings rejection rather than honor, for he was despised and rejected and crowned with thorns instead of a wreath, calling followers not to live for the world's applause.
Christians are called to endure suffering and hardship with self-denial by following his example, since he suffered for them, went before them, and trod the rough way. He trod suffering before followers, leaving an example for defending truth amid great opposition with courage and unshaken faith unto death if required, giving life for the right in the Redeemer's strength as the martyrs did. That following endures rejection and coldness even from trusted friends and presses on because the rejected Master strengthens and supports till conflicts are over. Suffering for the truth can lead through humility and patience toward perfection and should be met without murmuring but with rejoicing.
The way of life and inward peace is the way of the cross, for his whole life was marked by suffering, and dying to self on this path brings salvation, strength, virtue, and holiness. His footprints are marked by sinless blood as he endured thorns and weary journeys while bringing relief, and taking his yoke means trusting and remaining with him, for he bears the heavy load and his yoke and burden are light. Christians are called to follow his footsteps through trial and affliction, trusting God with consequences, enduring hardship and being purified after the Saviour's example. Disciples follow his footsteps by enduring suffering even unto death as they proclaim him and serve others, and their suffering confirms the truth of the message and shows attachment to him and his cause. Following is not an easy way free of crosses, trials, sorrow, or hardship, for it includes coming out from the world and remaining faithful even when that brings persecution or costs worldly respect.
Sinless Substitutionary Suffering
Christ suffered for human beings in their place, the just for the unjust, bearing human sins in his own body on the tree and enduring the penalty of sin so that forgiveness and salvation are made possible for the repentant and the claims of the law are satisfied while God's love for sinners is shown. His suffering was not for his own sins but for the sins of the world, because humanity had strayed from the way and lay under death as sin's penalty, and his mission was to redeem and purify people and bring them back to a life of purity and obedience undefiled before God. His complete freedom from sin, doing no sin and having no guile in his mouth, meant the kingdom of darkness had no hold or claim upon him, which was necessary for him to be an adequate, complete and satisfactory sacrifice, since one who had broken the law could not free others from its penalty by dying for them. Because he was without sin his blood cleanses from all sin and he is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God through him as one who ever lives to make intercession.
His vicarious death comes before his example and is the basis of salvation, while following his steps is the pattern for those who have already received salvation. The unrepentant sinner is not saved by imitating the example but by faith in the sacrificial work, and the believer then imitates him, doing good and serving others. To rely on his sacrifice while neglecting to follow his example is self-deception, for he both justifies and sanctifies and calls to growth in holiness and Christian graces. He is not merely an example to copy but the Redeemer who bought back from the law's curse of death by giving his life, on whom redemption and forgiveness depend, and trusting him wholly is contrasted with mere imitation. Faith in him as sacrifice and surety means past sins are forgiven and grace and help are given to keep God's commandments, so faith does not set aside the law but produces obedience in following his example and doing what he commands.
His sinlessness proves he never came under the yoke of service, sin and bondage, fulfilling the type of the red heifer without spot and without blemish upon which never came yoke. Though counted with the wicked in his death, his true character was sinless, doing no violence with no deceit in his mouth in confirmation of Isaiah 53:9. He lived in sinful flesh yet stainless of sin as a perfect pattern, pure before men, reproachless under angels' scrutiny, approved of God, matchless in righteousness, aglow with good works, magnificent in sacrifice and magnanimous in love and forgiveness, the manifestation of God in the flesh. Such a spotless example was necessary because those called to live sinless unselfish lives on the plane of angels must have a perfect pattern for stimulation, and in taking the form of a servant and the likeness of men he met every requirement of the race and every necessity of a perfect plan of salvation. He took human nature, died as sacrifice, and now lives as merciful High Priest, Redeemer and present Helper able to save all who come to him.
He was both human and divine, living to please his Father, keeping his Father's commandments, obedient even to death on the cross, with words and works that were his Father's in full cooperation with him, ending in exaltation to eternal glory in his Father's presence. His obedience to God's law stands in contrast to rebellion and purchased back the life forfeited through transgression. He took human weakness and sin, endured temptation, ridicule, grief and sorrow without complaint, and followed humiliation to the cross to lift people from sin and connect earth with heaven by his love and power. He came from heaven, accepted toil and sorrow from manger to Calvary, and steadfastly pleased God throughout his life. He shared humanity weakened by four thousand years of sin and accepted heredity like every child of Adam, sharing human sorrows and temptations to give an example of a sinless life.
He became fully human in flesh and blood, made lower than the angels, tempted as people are yet never yielding, meeting and overcoming Satan through God's strength rather than by divine power unavailable to humanity, so that the power he claimed is offered to those who abide in him and his sinless life can be followed. As bearer of the sins of the world he left an example of enduring suffering without shrinking, tasting the sour wine mixed with bitter drug offered on the cross and refusing to drink what would dull pain and mar communion with his Father, choosing to drink the bitter cup to its very dregs. Through sacrifice and patient endurance with no shrinking from self-denial, born in a manger among the lowliest to lift all and sympathize with the poor, his lonely journey bearing the cross to Calvary speaks to the friendless. He left the glory he had with the Father, became poor, endured insult and indignity without answering though he could have called for help, and died to make escape for the lost, so believers are to take him rather than others as pattern for character, hunger and thirst for righteousness, and be willing to suffer with him in hope of sharing his glory.
After public ministry as teacher and example he entered his passion as the Lamb of God, and those called by him follow in the same order by giving self to God and the church even to immolation, enduring persecution, exile, imprisonment and suffering for reformatory work and bold rebuke of sin and remaining faithful unto death out of love rather than recanting to escape, as Huss did in noble consecration calling others to sacrifice. Having left glory to endure poverty, hunger, thirst, the cup of agony in submission to his Father, and loneliness and abandonment at Calvary, his followers are to bear trials and take up the cross after him. He is the one example whose steps believers are called to follow and the complete personal Savior of everyone who comes to him. He is both Example and Saviour, so that to accept him is to follow his example.
His example was a life wholly consecrated to God's will involving all his powers and culminating in suffering and sacrifice of life, which crowned his ministry and led to exaltation above every name. He came and lived as example for followers and died as sacrifice for them, and his work continues at the Father's right hand where he appears for them. He took human nature, faced temptation yet resisted Satan, remained pure of unblemished character, and met and overcame the enemy's attacks on humanity's behalf, suffering for humanity and leaving a perfect example to follow. He taught the way by precepts and illustrated it by example, calling to inward dedication to God, with his death confirming that way and his resurrection bringing it to completion. His death is also the pattern for believers' death to sin and life to God, dying alone and leaving an example to follow. He came to live as the Example of the race and die as its Sacrifice, and is now the great High Priest before God and the only Saviour of the world, which when held as mere correct fact like the War of the Revolution or the circulation of the blood does not affect life and character but leaves the heart grasping, avaricious and uncharitable.
Patient Endurance Without Retaliation
Following his steps in suffering means doing no sin and speaking no deceit, not answering reviling with reviling nor threatening when suffering, but committing oneself to God who judges righteously. Christ suffered for believers and left this pattern for life, remaining sinless, magnifying the precepts of the law, not insisting on his rights, and meeting abuse and false accusation without retaliation so that his life itself refuted them. When reviled and made to suffer he remained calm, did not retaliate or threaten, and entrusted himself to God, and following him means relying on God rather than self so as to live as he lived. Christians are therefore called to endure grief and suffer wrongfully with patience when they do well, for this is acceptable with God, and such unjust suffering is to be expected as the faith and character of Christ in them is shown by patient endurance. His sufferings bore sins in his body on the tree so that believers, having died to sins, live unto righteousness and are healed by his stripes, and those who follow were once going astray like sheep but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of their souls.
Following governs the tongue to bless those who curse, to speak pleasant and cheerful words even to those who speak angry words, and not to return railing for railing. His suffering shows how to treat even one's worst enemies, by patiently and meekly bearing ill treatment for doing what is right, which testifies to a life transformed into his image and shaped by divine love. The pattern identified is a life without sin and without guile in speech, calling believers to put away guile and all deceit and to live with sincerity and integrity. This patient, non-retaliating response is the work of a sanctified tongue that brings peace, joy, light, courage, health and life to speaker and hearer, and brings peace while showing the truth. Following includes treating others with compassion and unity, not repaying evil or insults but returning blessing.
Following refuses violence, vengeance, armed self-defense and war, and does not take Christ as a leader of war nor use his name to justify killing others. Though condemned for political reasons and able to resist, he did not resist but continually entrusted himself to the Father, showing that disciples must not take up arms in defense of themselves or others. Patient submission to actual wrong, rather than armed self-defense or reliance on temporal power, is the Christian response, with God governing what is suffered and when it comes. Christians are therefore not to answer persecution with force or the sword, but to trust God even if they die, knowing that righteous judgment and eternal life lie beyond the grave. Instead of fighting with worldly weapons, because his kingdom is not of this world, they leave vengeance to him, bear witness to the truth in order to save lives rather than destroy them, and bless enemies and pray for persecutors.
His life of meekness — humility, patience under suffering, and refusal to retaliate — shows what following that example means for bearing wrong for conscience toward God. Because he is Master, Lord, forerunner and leader, believers should imitate his meekness, showing his patience toward those who wronged them and his mercy toward sinners now in preparation to be like him in glory. Copying him includes walking in love, forgiving, pleasing others rather than self, giving to the poor, stooping to lowly acts of service, and acting with lowliness of mind, but above all learning meekness and lowliness of heart from him. Saints show this by following the Lamb as lambs in meekness, which is why they are called his sheep, for if the Master is mild the servant must not be quarrelsome, but must meet cruelty and injustice with gentleness and kindness rather than imitating persecutors. His steps were gentleness and loveliness in every action, purity and holiness in every word, and disinterested love ruling his life, so that when foes struck him with malice and hate he returned words of love or kind reproof with tears showing kindness of heart. When wicked men put him to death no malice could disturb his calmness of mind, and to the last he showed unshaken love even for his persecutors, with meekness, love and mercy visible through a life of sorrow and even in death amid pain, mockery and scorn, including betrayal, scourging and crucifixion without anger or threat, even praying for his murderers.
Though innocent he endured mockery, abuse, scourging, persecution and condemnation, and many will face similar trials. He suffered not because he was worse than others but because he was better, even to loss of wealth, undermined health, loss of speech, a good name stained by malignant or careless tongues while private life remained pure as sunlight, and even shameful death under false charges, leaving heaven and living and dying made of no reputation while maintaining a pure character with no guile in his mouth, proving reputation is not character. Though able to call legions of angels, he meekly endured suffering, misunderstanding and rejection while remaining faithful on a blood-stained path that was not easy, showing it is better to suffer wrong than to commit wrong to secure justice. His character was so blameless that it awed his enemies, silenced accusations and stopped slander, presenting the standard of honor. He suffered far more than believers ever suffer and left his suffering as the pattern for those called to follow his steps, so that believers doing good should not look to professing Christians for a pattern, and when they meet rejection and hardship they should not murmur, feel discouraged or backslide.
Paul followed Christ's suffering example by living as a homeless wanderer, enduring hardship for the truth and seeking to bless others through a life like Christ's. He suffered while living a virtuous life marked by self-denial, charity and forgiveness, even through scourging and crucifixion, and his conduct stands as evidence against the claim that he was an impostor. How to bear suffering and to whom to entrust one's cause belongs to following his suffering example for those who suffer for his sake. His suffering gives an example when suffering false accusations and evil speech for the truth, calling believers not to be shaken but to rejoice, remembering that Jesus suffered before them and that a servant is not above his Lord. Being turned away from places to speak is an experience he had endured before his preachers, and those who suffer for doing right are called to follow his example by enduring affliction and reproach with patience. Believers are called to endure suffering for his sake following his example, including cheerfully bearing reproach and entrusting those who cause harm to the Master who intercedes for sinners.
Obedience to God's Law
Following his steps includes walking as he walked in keeping God's commandments, for doing no sin means keeping the law and his sinless, guileless life models righteousness. That sinless life without deceit in speech is both pattern and call to put away guile and live with sincerity and integrity. Faith is genuine only when it produces obedience, with the law implanted in the heart, and he fulfilled the moral law by meeting all its demands perfectly for the human race to follow. His obedience to the law, including the Sabbath commandment, shows the law remains binding.
He obeyed the Father's law perfectly and honored and upheld it in word and action, showing not only that people ought to obey but how to obey. His perfect, pure and holy life embodied all that is noble and holy, and whoever obeys him fulfills the law's claims, including treating every person as purchased by his blood. He molded every detail of earthly life in harmony with God's ideal and proved obedience possible, so character is to be built according to that Pattern for a habitation of God through the Spirit. His obedience while suffering, without breaking, changing or abolishing the law, is the ground of hope in him, and followers must loyally keep that law to receive his approval at the great day of God. The same faith that assures forgiveness lays hold of power to overcome sin and live a perfect life of commandment-keeping, as far as feeble human beings can imitate him.
His obedient life revealed the law in character, proving obedience is still binding and possible in human nature by grace, and following means letting the law take root in the heart in love. Following him includes living carefully, doing good, turning from sin, being meek and lowly, persevering through trials and persecution to victory and life with him. The law he obeyed was the Ten Commandments proclaimed at Sinai and spoken by Christ in human voice, and his obedience is example to follow while his suffering for sin's penalty was substitution. Turning from transgression to obedience to all precepts includes the fourth commandment, from which his grace saves as well as from the others, for he taught the seventh day is the Sabbath and kept it himself.
The command to follow his sinless standard proves full overcoming is possible, requiring striving for victory without lowering the standard, through his strengthening and the Spirit's power now and not in another probation. Following Christ is the sum of Christian duty, nothing more is required and nothing less meets the standard of the judgment, applied to Sabbath observance among other duties. His example is submitting to God's will and overcoming sin, in which believers share by faith, and does not require repeating every act he performed such as fasting forty days. Being called to faith means studying his life, reading God's word to learn duty and hastening to obey so faith produces good works, rather than saying faith alone removes the requirement to obey and imitate. Grace renovates the heart and produces obedience and good works rather than excusing from self-denial, enabling the Christ-life now amid temptations and conflicts within and without and keeping from falling.
His steps form one definite path of commandment-keeping from earth to heaven, and with the Bible alone his life is the rule of faith and standard of judgment. Walking just as he walked in obedience to the Father's commandments means doing and teaching them out of love for God, especially keeping the Sabbath he blessed and made holy as its Lord, which remains binding because he is the same yesterday and today and forever and brings blessing to those who keep it from pollution and keep from evil. Fellowship with him is obedience, obedience is life and disobedience is death, even unto death as Peter after conversion obeyed God rather than men, which today means walking in the way of all Ten Commandments. Following that walk is active work of keeping the commandments, gathering children to God, warning the world of hastening doom, watching and discerning his steps through study of the word with submissive heart to escape corruption, and making him the daily guide in every relationship, choice and undertaking by asking what he would do.
Following his example means obeying God's Word even when it leads to hardship and standing alone under suffering and opposition, as shown in obeying the Sabbath and staying loyal to the light of the commandment and his example. Leaving worldly honor and position to obey when Scripture shows the Sabbath remains in force is another step in following him. Old-time witnesses loyal to light from the commandment and his example followed righteousness despite suffering, opposition or standing alone, faithfully doing duty for his sake even when bringing persecution, abandonment or betrayal without discouragement and concerned only to suffer for faithfulness to him. Living by that pattern brings enmity of the wicked, so a life avoiding all conflict may show godliness lowered, though persecution is not to be sought for its own sake. He trod a rough and thorny humble path, calling followers to obey present saving truth for this generation even when despised, imitate all his blessed examples, walk the humble path he trod, and take fresh courage to struggle with darkness for eternal life till victory.
Following requires doing God's will fully, so uniting with ungodly men in secret societies to do only part of what the gospel requires lowers the Christian standard. The gospel already covers every truly righteous act such societies may require, and it is not safe to deviate from the word of God on pretense of benefiting fellow men. Following his footsteps means living by active faith, obeying God's commands and putting faith into practical action pressing forward in his way rather than living for amusement. Following his example by resisting temptation amid evil and copying his life shows those seeking to obey God's law need not yield to Satan's accusations. He suffered for us and went before as example, and his footprints lead along obedience to God and duty to others bringing joy. Walking in the path he set and obeying his word means living humbly before God, serving him rather than worldly aims and turning from the flesh and its desires in obedience and purity preparing for his soon return. As he obeyed God so believers are to obey the word day by day, with his humility, benevolence and self-sacrifice revealed in their lives to show they are his disciples and make known God's love for fallen humanity.
Sabbath Example to Keep
Following the steps left by suffering for believers means walking as he walked, including keeping the seventh-day Sabbath as a matter of custom in worship, teaching and doing good, since his human life showed how people ought to live and his keeping of his Father's commandments was for all and not for Jews only. With the Bible alone his life is the rule of faith, calling believers to obey the Father's commandments out of love for God by doing and teaching them, and especially by keeping the Sabbath that God blessed and made holy, of which he is Lord, which brings spiritual blessing to those who keep it from pollution and keep from doing evil. Following him is the sum of Christian duty, with nothing more required and nothing less meeting the standard of judgment, so his example gives no basis for Sunday keeping and he enables believers living in him to follow his way.
Refusing to follow him in Sabbath keeping is refusing to bear the cross and proving unworthy of him, while following means loyalty to the Sabbath he made at creation even under persecution, loss and ostracism. He suffered intolerance, persecution and cruel death on Calvary largely because of loyalty to that Sabbath, leaving a pattern for those entrusted with the proclamation of the third angel's message not to shrink from the suffering and hardship that Sabbath loyalty brings but to seek preparation of heart and warn others to accept the gospel so they can endure to the end. Because he does not change, following his steps today means observing the seventh-day Sabbath according to the commandments and keeping the Sabbath Jesus kept by grace even when obedience brings persecution and loss.
His Sabbath observance from childhood through public ministry, continued in the early church, remains binding because he is the same yesterday, today and forever, and he removed no obligation to keep the seventh day. His life as the sinless Law-keeper, not the authority of those who change or break the law, is the pattern to follow, so observing the seventh day is grounded in following him and not in imitating the Jews. As Creator of all things he rested, blessed the Sabbath and is Lord of it, and those who follow him enter his rest by ceasing from their own works.
Inquiring into his relation to every phase of Christian experience, including his relation to the law of God and especially to the Sabbath commandment, settles the Sabbath controversy, since whether he preached or practiced abrogation of the law or any part of it or transferred past Sabbath sacredness to another day is decisive. He neither broke, changed nor abolished the law nor transferred its sacredness, and his example is God's great rule of moral mathematics for testing conflicting theories for change from the seventh to the first day. Following his steps therefore means turning from transgression to obedience to all God's precepts including the fourth commandment, having the law written in the heart to delight in it and experience its life-giving power, choosing God's way of obedience over human custom, with his grace saving from breaking that commandment as well as the others.
Following his steps includes humble service to others, worshiping on the Sabbath, and sharing in the bread and the fruit of the vine as he did, for he served others, gave himself as the sacrifice for sin, and rose triumphant over sin and death. His life is the pattern servants must follow even into suffering in the coming conflict when law exalts a false sabbath and tramples God's Sabbath and brings persecution and great suffering on seventh-day observers, yet the faithful who stay true to God's requirements need not fear the outcome, for their reward will be eternal life measuring with the life of God. A life shaped by the Master's example does more to earn respect for a religious day than laws intended to protect or promote it. When facing envy and hatred for obeying the fourth commandment, he is the example for holding the banner openly rather than hiding it, while the children of disobedience carrying out the rebellion begun in heaven grow more bitter against Sabbath-keepers as the night of trial nears its end.
Christ Alone as Pattern
Christ alone, rather than Daniel, Paul, any apostle, saint or other person, is the perfect infallible safe example for faith and practice, and his conduct in obedience to God's will and Word is the rule, not a human example treated as an independent rule for keeping the first day or for oath-taking and other duties. No human saint is good enough to meet all of God's requirements, for only Christ is sinless and perfect, so he alone is to be imitated instead of men, his example may be followed implicitly while the apostles' example by itself is not an infallible guide, and imitating men brings a curse while following him is possible only by his life which he alone can give. No standard less than Christ is to be adopted, and Christians are to follow the path he marked out rather than measure conduct by self, by one another, or by the failures, weakness, faults and hypocrisy of professed Christians, which excuse no one and mislead, for each person is accountable to God and the perfect law of God remains the rule. Looking to him as the perfect Pattern leaves believers satisfied with him rather than seeking human examples, and looking to Christ gives strength for the conflict and hope of victory through God's grace. Copying another's errors as well as good deeds is dangerous, and conduct that can be condemned by others falls still more short of Christ's standard, for he walked the same path believers must walk and those who would lead others should live to reflect his pure example. His life, and especially his suffering and death, draws people of every age to a nobler life as the only worthy model, yet following his steps is not hero-worship of the prophet of Nazareth as a merely human ideal to be copied by human effort, but requires acknowledging his divinity as both Son of man and Son of God and accepting his righteousness as the only basis of perfection of character with the divine gift of power for righteousness.
He is the perfect human example whose life teaches how to fulfill duties to God and others, because he lived in human nature and amid human circumstances and therefore provides a model people can follow in their own lives. His life, including childhood and youth, shows that one can walk closely with God in humble circumstances and serve God faithfully in ordinary work and household duties, and his suffering and conflict with temptation make his life an example for people in every stage of life. His earlier life of faithful duty was an example in childhood, youth and adulthood, his sinless humanity sought support and strength from the Father in prayer as he began his public work, and the path he entered also led through trials, toil, conflict, suffering and death. His example includes his early years in helping his mother at home and fulfilling his commission in household duties and work at the carpenter's bench as truly as in public ministry, and children learn to follow his example by sharing in the gladness of his life. His humble patient labor as a carpenter dignified useful work, for though he had divine power he did not use it to lessen his burdens or avoid the hardships of human life, so industrious labor is honorable and following his way of toil is a safe path. The man Christ Jesus is the one flawless character in the whole range of history and the one perfect pattern to follow, for even otherwise most admirable people have faults such as a strongly emotional nature not always controlled that can be roused to burning frenzy, so only Christ stands faultless.
He is the accurate original pattern put into the hands of believers to shape every life to the same size and shape, to be measured directly every time like a square pattern so that all show great uniformity with him, and pupils illustrate this by careful exact use of the square. Cutting one life by Christ and then laying him aside and cutting the next life by the first, the third by the second and so on, causes a gradual varying from the pattern almost imperceptible at first but after many repetitions leaving professed Christians almost as far from Christ as possible, so believers should imitate the Pattern as closely as they can, strive to overcome everything not Christ-like, and seek with the Lord's help to become like him and overcome. He took human nature and lived as Example and complete personal Savior of everyone who comes to him, and his life shows the pattern of faithful conduct whose steps believers are called to follow. His perfect model for faith and practice means teaching and dealing with others as he did, with humility and without harshness or condemnation. He is the model for both preaching and Christian living in quiet dignity in life and personal work, pure fitting speech, illustrations drawn from ordinary experience, and presenting God's truth with power and conviction.
His religion is not sensational, and claims of spiritual inspiration or holiness do not justify fanciful ideas or conduct contrary to purity, for he is the pattern to follow in every part of life. His example includes careful thorough work, wise use of physical powers, working with his hands, and refusal to be defective even in handling tools. Following him as the perfect pattern to imitate in all of life makes each church member morally sound, so the whole body is beautiful and its life bears witness to the world through love. He is humanity's perfect example whose words and actions were never meaningless and whose earthly life disciples should closely study. He is the pattern guiding words and actions so that lives lead others to him and make truth attractive through beauty and simplicity. He is the pattern of goodness whose life was marked by unselfish kindness and holiness, living out his teachings with consistency, strength, tenderness and sympathy.
Training and improving abilities and developing moral character help influence others to follow his example, and conduct should not lower others' ideas of Christian character. He is the church's great example who through teaching and example revealed God's character, with love motivating his coming to reconcile people to God and save them. He is the example of perfect manhood. His example is the pattern for teaching, which means seeking to win students to God. He is the highest Model for humanity, and the call is applied by turning attention from the wrongs or ignorance of others to one's own soul, removing evil and jealousy, and seeking to live approved by him. He left a model to copy that has worth and binding authority, and to treat that model as worthless is a most fatal delusion for the soul, standing together with teaching that God's eternal law is not binding.
He left a pattern in lowly birth in a stable among cattle and in being trained and toiling as a carpenter in Nazareth which he found good, so imitating him means treading the path of labor and working without complaining as doing the holy will of God, and those who do so find him among them where many toil together and with the tired workman alone, dwelling amid daily strife as peace and as bread in daily life. He is the one safe Example and Teacher to follow in days of peril, his way not strange but his own way marked at every step with blessed footprints, the life he asks not strange for it is his life lived before us and to be lived in us, and his teaching the truth of God fresh from the ever-living Source every day as the fountain of life for the thirsty, so simple a child may accept it yet so vast no philosopher can sound it, unaffected by Higher Criticism, lower criticism, Theosophy, Christian Science, Modern Spiritualism, New Thought and religio-political theories. He himself is the Way, the Truth and the Life, the same yesterday, today and all days to come, and travelers in uncertainty, lost wanderers in sin's night, and sin-sick restless heart-hungry souls are to follow him, listen to his voice, follow the light from his wounded side and come to him for rest, and they that trust in him shall not be ashamed world without end. Christians are called to copy Christ, so whatever he did every Christian should be willing to do.
Character to Imitate Daily
Following means imitating his humility, meekness, lowliness, patience, mercy and love in thought, word and deed, forgiving rather than condemning and receiving sinners to help them rise. His life shows peace, kindness, mildness, readiness to forgive, wholehearted obedience, self-denial, doing good and submission, with love, grace and unselfishness to be shown in great and small matters and conduct agreeing with truth taught. Copying him includes walking in love, pleasing others rather than self, giving to the poor, stooping to lowly acts of service, and learning lowliness of heart, so that as lambs following the Lamb his sheep are mild and not quarrelsome, with other human models followed only as far as they match him. His facing the trials and temptations of mortal life displayed meekness and humility, sacrifice and diligence in his Father's work, with his Spirit shaping minds and lives toward sacrificial service for others' good.
Following means doing the Father's will as daily food, seeking not self-will but pleasing God, surrendering human will though nature shrinks, and presenting the body a living sacrifice. His steps are not physical places he walked, such as Olivet, Jacob's well, Nazareth or Bethany, but his example and spirit to be found and imitated, requiring care where one's own feet go. Following him means honoring and pleasing the Father, doing the Father's work, obeying his commandments, directing attention to him, and constantly consecrating all to his service as Elder Brother in God's family, which molds character into divine similitude for glory. His example was to surrender human will to the Father's will, accepting temptation, humiliation, reproach, suffering and death, making it meat and drink to finish the work given him, which cannot be done by human strength but as he enables by example and Spirit. Renouncing own will means standing firm in principles of right clearly revealed in God's word while not confusing stubborn prejudice with righteousness, and in matters where others may rightly differ surrendering insistence on having one's own way to learn submission.
Following shapes home and church harmony through united love, forbearance, kindness and forgiveness, avoiding revenge, contention, discord, resentment, distance and animosity. Fathers and mothers are called to follow closely in his footsteps as missionaries at home, giving children a right example by their own life to lead inexperienced youth into the path for the ransomed and win them by love, with patient instruction, care, tenderness and earnest prayer rather than faultfinding or compulsion. Parents must make the Bible the guide to bring up children in nurture and admonition, presenting his pattern, reading what the Lord has said concerning similar sins when children err, watching with constant care lest one tolerated wrong trait deform the whole character, and teaching need of a new heart, new tastes, new motives, help from Christ and acquaintance with God's character. Copying him in words and actions before all associates requires, with the end of all things at hand, a heart and mind sanctified by truths of the Word, guarded words and actions, daily education away from every unfit tendency, and joint preparation with children for the examination day and the higher school above. True religious training comes not by Sabbath prayers joined with weekday bad tempers nor by appeal to emotion, fear or too constant appeal to conscience, but by parents themselves being in relation to God what they desire the child to be, in absolute trust and cheerful serene acceptance of life's circumstances with persistent daily recognition of God's claims.
Following refuses worldly display, praise-seeking, extravagant dress and conformity, choosing simplicity, inward humility and peculiar dress and manners as meek and lowly disciples. Being a Christian means being like Christ and walking in his steps in humility and simplicity rather than adopting costly display or worldly standards to gain influence among the socially high, with dignity, propriety, modesty and freedom from sinful levity and from the spirit of ungodly pleasures and associations. A Bible Christian imitates him and does not conform to the world's customs or excuse conformity to changing fashions, but lives simply and self-sacrificingly. His suffering and death to redeem humanity calls for meekness, self-denial and self-abasement rather than pleasing self or enjoying the world, accepting humiliation and suffering rather than worldly comfort, overcoming by leaving behind what belongs to the world, for those who would be with him in heaven must be like him on earth.
Following includes earnest prayer as he prayed in Gethsemane, on Olivet, through nights and before day, drawing power through the same channel to overcome temptation. Burdened with the world's sins he poured out his soul to be strengthened and prepared, praying through the night before choosing the twelve and in agony in Gethsemane, and his sinless humanity seeking support from the Father at the start of public work shows the path that also leads through trials, toil, conflict, suffering and death. From him is learned prayer in conflict and bearing suffering, shame, loss, cross and death, with completed sacrifice at Calvary and rising pointing to resurrection, continued without discouragement though cross and ignominious death lay ahead, giving freely what was received and putting needs of sick, hungry, oppressed and grieving before comfort or praise.
Following requires self-denial over appetite, refusing corrupting indulgences such as tobacco and harmful habits, copying his wilderness fasting victory, and asking whether he would join recreations. His humiliation in the long fast of nearly six weeks, suffering to overcome appetite on behalf of the race, teaches keeping appetite under control of reason and refusing indulgence that enervates mind and heart, harms health and weakens moral power. His anguish came less from hunger than from sense of the fearful result of indulging appetite and passion, knowing appetite would become an idol leading to forget God and stand directly in the way of salvation. His example gives one standard for ministers and lay members alike, incompatible with tobacco use, which cannot be imagined as part of his conduct and which corrupts and draws away the Spirit, so choices about recreation are tested by whether Jesus would take part.
His example encompasses private prayer, teaching, kindness, good works, doing the Father's will, humility, serving others, and loving enemies in inward spirit rather than mere feeling, evidencing oneness with him. Though having no settled place to stay he went to a mountain to pray alone, showing private prayer wherever one can be alone with God, and his committing no sin, speaking no deceit, not retaliating when reviled and making no threats when suffering but entrusting himself to the righteous Judge belongs to the pattern. Walking as he walked in doing good, serving others and helping them learn salvation entails humility, serving, loving enemies and Christ-like character in conduct as well as inward spirit, with striving to reflect him in every word and action, surrendering self-will, relying on divine power and seeking close communion in prayer to help sinners, comfort the sorrowful and aid the weary. This Christ-like walk, not intense religious feelings, evidences oneness with him, to be studied and imitated in daily conduct in serving those around in the Saviour's spirit, even while grieving remaining unlikeness and looking to be fully like him at home.
Doing true, honest, just, pure, lovely and gracious things as his steps brings the God of peace to be with believers by his Spirit as companion and joy. Believers' lives should accord with his example in word and deed. Being more like him in conduct means living in a way that reflects him and is changed to live as he did, with his footsteps guiding words and actions in walking with him.
He left a pattern of humility that must be followed to be exalted in his heavenly kingdom, namely preaching to the poor, comforting the lowly and afflicted, having no place to lay his head, becoming poor for others' sake, and taking the form of a servant. Seldom with the rich except to give faithful admonition, though King of glory he became poor and worked for others' good, and followers are to walk in those selfless steps. His humble, self-sacrificing life is to be imitated in daily life by obeying his teachings and holding to truth even when it brings persecution, trial, or loss of worldly comfort and life. His suffering example calls believers to give up selfish preferences and nonconforming ways rather than treating them as untouchable weaknesses.
His holiness, humility and constant self-denial pattern the whole of life in consecrated love and faith in ordinary work and relationships as well as worship, resisting worldly rewards and pleasures. Following means showing on earth the temper and spirit of heaven, and living as he would in one's circumstances and among one's people, meeting daily annoyances and trials to please God and show genuine faith. Learning his life and teachings and walking in his footsteps through a consecrated life is the highest education, with his resistance to evil and work for others as example, giving power otherwise unattainable to take his teachings and follow them faithfully. Abiding in him means walking as he walked, including faithfully preaching the gospel and all God's counsel without being silenced by fear, persecution or prejudice.
Following means a Christ-like life of character and obedience, not merely feeling close to him, and feelings do not determine relation to him. Character and obedience rather than emotional experience show relation to him, and God helps those honestly seeking righteousness in a life shaped by his example. Following his steps means asking what he would do in daily trials and interruptions, learning to suffer and grow strong, finding comfort in his word, and reflecting him in kind words, kind heart and pleasant voice so others trust him. In practice this means not turning away the hungry or answering abruptly when busy, but feeding the stranger with food and a word for the soul, speaking gently and sitting with the poor in sisterly talk about loving Jesus and salvation, leading them to see Jesus as Elder Brother and never-failing Friend to take sorrows, cares and sins.
Believers are to imitate his humble unselfish character and fill the mind with truth, for his character gives force to Christianity and copying him brings inevitable influence for good. Even unbelievers admit he was good and cite his words against inconsistent followers, and even the most obscure Christian copying him cannot help exerting good influence, just as he could not be hid even in retirement in uninhabited places. He descended from glory and set an example to follow through closer conformity to him and his mind, speaking nothing harsh, unkind, uncharitable or unbrotherly, lived as life by faith of the Son of God. Following his example includes living humbly and faithfully and serving the needy, and suffering is not always punishment for sin as Job's loyalty under severe affliction shows.
One who lived as a Christian by shunning evil companions still needed encouragement to walk in his footsteps. Believers must learn of him and walk in the way he trod in daily life rather than becoming absorbed in work and worry neglecting kindness, Scripture, prayer and thought of God. His pattern of humility and service shapes how followers treat one another to be teachable, accept counsel, value others' gifts, and serve rather than seek honor. Those called to serve God are to follow his example by walking in humility, faithfully serving, and cherishing and obeying heaven's holy principles in word and action. His example is to be followed in conduct, with Christlike character formed by acting in a Christlike way with holy temper prompted by the Holy Spirit.
His example is followed when lives reflect the Lord, with lives adorning truth bearing witness to the minister who taught it. Peter's transformation illustrates the lesson of following the Master Teacher's steps. What he was in earthly life every Christian is to be, in spotless purity, patience, gentleness, firmness for truth with kindness, bringing purer atmosphere home and society. Firm as rock where truth and duty are concerned yet invariably kind and courteous, his life perfectly illustrates true courtesy, with kind look and word of comfort for needy and oppressed, walking harmless among thoughtless, rude, uncourteous, unjust publicans, unrighteous Samaritans, heathen soldiers, rough peasants and mixed multitude, sharing burdens, speaking sympathy to the weary, repeating nature's lessons of God's love and kindness, and inspiring hope that the roughest may become blameless children of God.
Making him the daily pattern molds followers in communion with God after the divine likeness, directing minds and showing in deportment that they follow the meek and lowly Jesus. If he abides in the heart by faith, thoughts dwell on holy heavenly things, and life becomes fragrance and loveliness felt by all within reach, with influence felt even unconsciously, for by example minds are directed to purity and righteousness or turned to perdition, and one word or act purifying or poisoning the moral atmosphere may decide a soul's destiny. Those looking for his coming are watched by the world, so deportment must show they follow him rather than absorption in minor things, keeping eyes fixed on Jesus to be changed into the same image and reflect his beauty. Following his example teaches humility and love in daily dealings, putting others' needs before one's own. Imitating Jesus means reflecting God's love through gentleness, patience, sweetness and kindness to draw people to God.
Self-Denying Service and Mission
Following his steps means self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others, giving up home, friends, comfort, pleasure and honor, becoming poor, working for others rather than self, refusing self-glorification, and laying all upon the altar of service even unto death. Ministers especially are to bear burdens as examples to the flock, carrying forward his reconciling work faithfully even when visible results are small, in confidence that seed planted will bear greater fruit after their labor and that heaven sees and prospers devoted service. His unselfish life is the pattern rather than the world's selfish way, and those who receive his salvation are called to share in his self-denial, humiliation and sacrifice. Following includes self-sacrifice because he left the royal courts and became poor so that people might share salvation, and his suffering for sinners calls for denying selfish desires, living simply, foregoing needless spending, and accepting sacrifice for his sake since grace came at infinite cost.
Continuing his path means continuing his compassionate ministry of doing good, healing broken hearts, relieving disease, misery and sin, comforting the sick and sorrowful, feeding and caring for the poor and distressed, and bringing restoration, health, peace and character in unselfish missionary labor. His pure aims and loving heart made doing good natural and brought light and gladness wherever he went, and disciples are to make usefulness their aim, take delight in serving, love others in practical ways, share their pain and burdens, care for their interests, correct sin kindly, and give help to those in need. His compassion reached all ready to receive his message, including those who could come only after their day's work, and when Christians reflect his love, kindness, devotion, sacrifice, Spirit, words and deeds, others see his character in them and are led to follow him. Generous, merciful action according to need is required, which demands the carnal mind be subdued by grace and love.
Following means active soul-saving effort, warning the world, seeking the lost, and sharing the gospel near and far, with love moving believers to submit to his guidance and trust his blood. It means sacrificing, bearing burdens and laboring for others' good rather than using opportunities for personal advantage, remaining steadfast in saving souls undiverted by opposition or by flattery and persuasion of friends, and reaching others through God's power and not by argument alone. Those called to carry on the work he left are to become familiar with his methods and copy his example, doing nothing of self but taking his yoke, learning of him, and letting God dwell within by the Holy Spirit to protect, guide and do the works. This includes teaching truth simply, carefully, and with assurance and power, giving what can be understood and withholding what cannot yet be comprehended, presenting nothing contrary to the light God has given nor using methods opposed to his will, but walking in the pathway of light. Mission grows out of a changed life shaped by his redeeming love, grace and power, and calls for self-denial, sacrifice and earnest effort.
Following is living as pilgrim, sojourner and stranger without love of worldly ease, comfort, settled resting place, or anxious thought for the morrow about food, drink and clothing, but depending on God for daily bread, enduring separation, poverty, reproach, persecution and hatred for his sake, and rejoicing in tribulation. The Christian calling is not a right to happiness but the right to walk in his very footsteps, being harmless, holy and helpful as coworkers with God in redemption, battling for right against wrong and against the adversary of souls. Happiness is at best a by-product, subsidiary and omissible, for one might be happy forever and miss life's goal, or never be happy and gloriously gain it, while his steps bring burdens, suffering for sin and fellowship with his grief, yet also sunshine, peace the world cannot give or take, the joy of warrior and life-saver, and the finest love and fellowship, counting nothing dear beside accomplishing God's work. Choosing his work may mean giving up comfort, light and friends' company to enter towns where people suffer in sin and spiritual darkness, yet his presence brings divine light to the path first feared.
His complete separation from political and state affairs is the example to follow, for he gave himself to his Father's kingdom rather than trying to reform Caesar's system or form and manage parties. He took no steps toward domination of politics, gaining control of government, or dictating affairs of state, giving never by word, look or sign the slightest indication of any such thing despite open invitations, the longing expectation of the people, and willingness to take him by force and set him at the head of government, but openly repudiated every suggestion, withdrew himself, and prayed for better views of himself and his mission. Therefore endeavoring to secure legislation enforcing religious views, to make religion dominate politics, shape laws, control the state, and establish a religious state or earthly political kingdom of God, does not follow his steps nor walk as he walked. Though the politics of his day greatly needed purifying and he desired better civic conditions, he left worldly politics to the world and never taught by precept or example that joining corrupt politics would purify it, but offered the gospel as the only remedy, so following him means leaving politics alone and working for betterment only through the gospel, interpreting life as he did and living as he lived, including keeping the seventh-day Sabbath.
Following includes baptism by immersion and the Lord's Supper in commemoration of his death, burial and resurrection, publicly leaving the world, turning from it, taking a stand for present truth, and walking in newness of life. His humble service gives meaning to the ordinances, recalling his body broken and blood shed and expressing hope of seeing him again, and his washing of the disciples' feet with his command to do likewise belongs to the high privilege of following his suffering example with hope of reigning with him. Following Jesus is the whole of faith and practice, walking where he walked and doing as he did, with his footprints leading straight through this world into heaven, turning the feet of others into that path and drawing inspiration and power from his life for evangelistic, educational, and health and temperance work. He came to show the heavenly way, shed his blood and died to offer healing, freedom from sin's chains, and life, and his followers are to go in his footsteps.
Sport hunting that causes human deaths, costly display while a beggar goes without, and lowering the standard to meet the world fail to live consistently with the Saviour who died to save, for merely naming him Lord or displaying symbols of his cross does not follow his steps. Lifting the cross and following his steps gives fortitude and courage and points to him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and true Christians are those walking in his footsteps. He is the Servant of servants, and when servants suffer wrongfully and endure it, their conduct follows his example and is acceptable to God. Christians are called to set an example others can follow, so that teaching, correcting and guiding others back to God require a life consistent with the counsel given, upholding practical righteousness, confronting wrongdoing, and leading others toward his standard by influence and example.
His example includes bearing another's punishment in their place, showing a way of dealing with wrongdoing that can soften a resistant heart. He bore his cross as duty, not because he felt like it or regarded it as privilege, so believers should do duty even when they do not feel like it, as in taking part in social and conference meetings rather than holding back, keeping on working in his footsteps and sharing suffering for him. Following his steps means cheerfully walking in his footsteps, denying self, taking up the cross and bearing it after him, turning from error and obeying God even when obedience conflicts with personal convenience or worldly interests, with his example guiding soul-saving work and his yoke bringing rest and the kingdom and crown. His way of serving through toil is to be followed by keeping on working to do the Master's will even when weak or discouraged, receiving no human praise, or suffering earthly loss, for labor for him is not in vain and the Master's praise and promised kingdom and crown are the reward.
His life reveals an unselfish ambition to make the world better, which is the pattern for those called to service. Following his serving example can require hardship, injury and even risking life to save others. Ministers must stay close to him and follow his example in purity of life, self-denial, benevolence, diligence and perseverance, meekly learning from him in every discourse to gain a right view of God's character and teach others, while leaders help the church by pointing people to him and leading them to follow him. Walking in his footsteps of love, humility, obedience and self-sacrifice, rather than selfish effort, pursuit of earthly gain or human power, is the power to evangelize the world.
His self-giving love is the example for growing into his likeness through unselfish giving, extending concern to sinning and suffering people and to those without Christ, and living beyond self-interest as coworkers with God. He trod the path of weary, unrequited labor to save and help others before his servants, ministering instead of being ministered to even giving his life as ransom for sin's captives, so those called to this work are not alone when efforts are unappreciated but must not faint nor be disheartened but labor on serving the Lord Christ who walks with them. The call is to active service by actually doing good and not merely contemplating or intending it, with greater needs calling for greater effort, and workers are to follow his giving of life as the example of labor to win souls. The verse calls to a life of service and hardship rather than ease, denying self, sacrificing, working for him and carrying the cross wherever he leads in humble soul-saving labor, accepting self-denial and suffering in imitation of his humble, self-sacrificing pattern.
Reflecting that following him means walking in his footsteps brings joy to the newly baptized believer. He suffered for others and left a perfect example for those who wish to be like him and share his work, and his holy life makes duty and purpose clear. Doing the Lord's work by walking in his footsteps turns lives into praise and thanksgiving to him who was sent to take away the world's sin. He received the Spirit's anointing and went about doing good, and repentance and baptism in Jesus' name for remission of sins, followed by the gift of the Holy Ghost, fit believers to walk as he walked, follow his steps, and overcome as he overcame.
Walking humbly where he trod means faithfully keeping God's truths, bearing the heavy cross and wearing the world's scorn, letting light shine over the darkened plain, trusting the Saviour's name, leading wanderers in from sin, visiting the sick and fatherless, clothing the needy and feeding the poor, and staying on the narrow road to heaven until the battle is over and home is reached. His life stands as a pattern to be copied by employing every talent in every possible way for others' good and ministering like angels of mercy, for possessing his Spirit puts away discord, selfishness and strife and makes happy families and happy members of society. His followers must accept sacrifice, labor and suffering rather than yielding to ease or selfish desire, continuing the battle with self while advancing the gospel. They are called to walk in his steps by carrying on his ministry of love and unselfishness, formed through daily faithfulness and close contact with him as the disciples were taught and fitted to make disciples, enduring hardship and serving others with self-forgetting love.
Following his steps as Guide means leaving fields with flowers, light and friends to walk into towns where skies are black with noise and din and air is thick with fog veiling the sun, because sin is there and souls are sick and undone in the dark, assured of a crown instead of flowers and that in heaven it will not seem hard to have followed. His life is an example to reproduce by following how he met people's needs as in Palestine, with his Spirit shaping serving Christians.
Growth Toward Perfection
Saving work and example cannot be separated, for suffering for people also left a pattern to copy, so those who look to him as Saviour are called to imitate his life, conduct, temper and disposition, seeking to suffer and work as he did with the Holy Spirit's help and God's grace making likeness the daily aim. To see him is to see the Father, for the righteousness and life of God in the written Word is fully revealed, illustrated and manifested in him as the living Word made flesh, and nothing is required beyond what he does and is. By beholding, considering, believing, obeying and following him, followers become partakers of the divine nature and are changed into the same image, allowing him to live in their hearts and bringing into their lives what was in his so they reveal him fully to the world. As Moses built tabernacle and furniture exactly according to the pattern shown in the mount, so believers must build according to Christ as Pattern, and his devotion to the Father — honoring and pleasing him, doing his work, obeying his commandments, directing attention to him — is the fruit of a life planted and tended by God's Spirit.
Safety is found in following his steps and steadily advancing in character, meekly bearing the cross, despising shame, and patiently enduring to the end. All who abide in him should live as he did, so meekness must characterize Christians, and the elect are called to live in every act and under every circumstance exactly as Jesus would live if in their place. This means giving up one's own ways and plans to walk as he walked, resisting sin through power God gives, which life of following is connected with having eternal life now, and includes obedience to all God's commandments including the Sabbath, he giving his life so that believers may walk as he walked.
Step-by-step following onward and upward nearer to him means walking close by his side as he leads and the Holy Spirit guides, since man cannot direct his own steps. In God's light every weakness, sin spot, plague spot, idol of the heart, sinful pride and unholy passion is seen and to be put away, with grace received to endure closer and sharper testing without falling from steadfastness, being proved, washed and cleansed from defilement until pure and clean, so as to be owned among the sanctified and blessed at his coming and enter rest. Measuring conduct by his example and God's law reveals one has not yet reached the full measure of well-doing, for using one's own judgment as standard leads to complacency and self-deception. His steps form a narrow path separate from the world, in which he pleased not himself, was always obedient, received not honor from men, and walked in unbroken fellowship with God until his soul was made an offering for sin. Believers cannot follow him into being forsaken by God in his cry, yet keeping remembrance of that sorrow and death for sin fresh in the heart causes them to bear about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus and to live as forever consecrated to God's service, tracing footprints revealed in Scripture while striving to live faithfully amid sin and repeated failures with help from God, requiring inward godliness and thoughts toward God and heaven rather than mere religious form.
Becoming fit for God to dwell within requires becoming like him in all things, learning to dwell with him here on earth before sharing his presence and throne in heaven. His earthly life is to be lived again in followers so they are identified with him and live by his life, which requires vital connection through which life flows to them. Those who follow his example are the focus of heaven's attention as they strive to walk in his footsteps, keeping his life and teachings before them, showing purity of principles through conduct, and striving to perfect Christian character as they work out salvation with fear and trembling while God works in them to will and do what pleases him. Following is made possible by change in which they become partakers of the divine nature and God's law is written in hearts, so they can keep the Father's commandments, abide in his love, come boldly to the throne for grace in need, work with him and please him in all things, leading to glory only faintly realized now, and copying the Pattern means estimating one's soul as his purchased possession and acting as living agency exerting sanctified influence in unity to build his kingdom, for careless inaction and neglect to improve entrusted faculties robs the world of promised influence of the Holy Spirit.
Conforming life to him and walking in his steps is a continuing, often painful process of self-examination and self-discipline, resisting and putting away moral evil throughout life, where earlier victories ease later struggles but never end the fight, and faith's justifying power belongs to this life in Christ. He was tempted in all points as people are yet maintained integrity, never swerved from allegiance, and no stain marred his life, showing what human beings may become through divine grace. To follow is to work out salvation with fear and trembling lest errors lead others astray, to seek diligently wisdom God gives to those who walk in faith, to co-operate with God, advance constantly in religious experience, draw nearer and become more like him daily revealing more nearly required perfection, so human beings become examples of what God expects, which assimilation must be gained by all pronounced worthy to enter the holy city. Following means striving to reflect his character in every word and action, relying on divine power, surrendering self-will, seeking close communion in prayer, helping sinners, comforting the sorrowful and aiding the weary, grieving over remaining unlikeness yet keeping striving until fully like him at home with him, living carefully, doing good, turning from sin, being meek and lowly, obeying God's law and persevering through trials and persecution to victory and life with him, for Christian perfection includes imitating his life and spirit. This is a life of faith crediting all the Bible says, worked by the Spirit filling, enlightening, comforting and sanctifying the heart, sweetening temper, subduing will, controlling tongue, producing meek gentle quiet frame and heart glowing with love to his name, avoiding lightness, gloom and sinful strife, loving and honoring him alone, leaving self in his hands and presenting self a living sacrifice to him who died a sacrifice.
Desire to become more like him, daily effort to do so, and sorrow for sin even when undiscovered show the new birth, while making excuses to avoid change or submission shows need for new birth. His holy life awakens desire to live faithfully and do as he did, and his death and power given lead to self-denial and make the cross a delight. Small ordinary acts of daily life reveal whether one lives for Jesus or self and shape larger actions leaving visible trace, weighing for or against right to white robe and starry crown. Through faith in him people leave former ways and become meek, pure and changed in what they love, reflecting his character, and following closely as pattern guards against irritability and uncontrolled anger that comes from living too far from him. Following his steps means turning from error, denying self, taking up the cross, and obeying God even when obedience conflicts with personal convenience or worldly interests.
His life and Spirit are the standard of perfection and the safe course is to follow his example, requiring diligent effort and willingness to suffer. God gives his Spirit to those who strive, live and believe for it, enabling them to walk in the light as he does, guides them by counsel and will receive them to glory. This requires entire surrender to God and turning away from love of the world and earthly things, and one who hesitates to give up worldly interests may follow so distantly it is unclear whether following his example or the enemy's, and cannot truly be his disciple.
Character must conform to him and to principles of God's law to dwell in presence of a holy God, requiring conversion of heart as well as intellect. Hope of heaven requires walking in his footsteps here, and claims that spiritual manifestations will convert the world do not replace following his example. His suffering is a painful example requiring disciples to let him lead without turning from consecrated life or compromising faith, surrendering will and purposes and trusting him, with steady good works and influence leading others toward God and heaven rather than causing harm. Truth and virtue are to shine in people like his perfect pattern as they accept God's will whether they live or die.
The call to follow in his steps is a call to keep advancing with light to still greater brightness as Providence leads, not closing the mind with only a glimpse of truth as if all is known but accepting increased light and moving forward with it. Failure to advance with light flashed upon Levitical laws and sacrificial offerings and upon his humiliation, rejection and crucifixion showed lack of this following, and even those teaching truth know very little of what it means because comprehension is dull and minds narrow. He is the pattern to be shaped into his likeness by seeking sanctifying change of character and standing firm for right despite opposition. Following means shaping choices and conduct by his character and purposes, while worldly entertainments conflicting with the gospel draw disciples from him and rob peace. As believers continue in faith their works are to become increasingly like his, and by divine grace they can be enabled to do what God requires. They may live the life he lived if rightly connected with the same Source of power he used, in whom the Father's love is revealed, and setting before children and youth the incidents of his early life, surroundings in Nazareth, conduct in home, first temple experience and growing understanding of mission arouses desire to live as he lived and to make him personal friend.
Following his footsteps is part of Christian calling and a daily experience of sanctification, seen in self-controlled life growing into his likeness and preparing for his coming. He as Master has passed on before, pointing out the way and leaving footsteps to trace, calling believers to follow in the path that leads today, kept and aided by his grace so steps do not stray.
Guidance Assurance and Reward
He goes before as Shepherd who calls his own sheep by name and leads them out, and they follow where he leads because they know his voice and will not follow strangers. He has trod a way ahead through paths, dangers, hardships, darkness, rough places and anguish, and calls followers to keep step willingly and stay close through danger and darkness. Though dangers surround them and they may not always see their guide, they can follow his visible footprints and trust his promise to keep them safe toward the heavenly fold and the other shore. Following means obeying his commands without delay, patiently bearing trials and crosses where he led, trusting his wisdom, overcoming through his power, and pressing on in his strength by the enduring word that makes faith strong.
Remembering what he suffered gives strength when the road is hard, for he trod the path of suffering and bore agony as example and teacher of submission. His perfect victory through temptation, sorrow, dangers, discouragement and fiery trials came as he kept before him the joy of redeeming humanity, and because he knew these things from experience he can strengthen those who face them so they need not think it strange. Trials, conflicts, losses, hard experiences, chastisements and rebukes can reveal his love, strength and grace and bring people nearer to find his footprints, and may therefore be received with thankfulness, even while weak and trembling placing steps where his have gone. Following his steps means being led by him into truth, having his words brought to mind, having the heart purified, and being fitted to work with him in saving souls, filled with his Spirit in perfect peace, comfort in affliction and joy more satisfying than all other pleasures. It means being watchful and prayerful, shunning rashness and timidity, not speaking harshly or cruelly to or against fellow believers bought by his sin-offering, not being ashamed to own him and his truth and work, and loving to follow meekly and trustingly without cowardice or presumption while delighting to recall his words, acts and sufferings.
Walking his steps cannot be done in human strength but only through Christ the merciful High Priest who suffered being tempted and can help the tempted. His response to suffering shows how to meet temptation: when reviled he did not retaliate, and when suffering he entrusted himself to the Father who judges righteously, teaching believers to commit themselves to God to be kept through trials. Resistance comes through the word of God, not by arguing with temptation or relying on willpower, for the Holy Spirit brings the studied word to mind and through that word believers are kept from sin, sharing his victory by faith in moral acts and principles rather than repeating every act such as fasting forty days. He identified with human necessity and suffering as the sinless Son living in dependence on the Father, taking the place of suppliant petitioner seeking fresh supply of strength to be invigorated for trial and to impart encouragement, and believers follow by daily casting helpless souls on him for help, grace and power instead of forgetting the Lord and giving way to self and impulse. His human life made prayer necessary and a privilege, receiving strength for duty and trial through communion, and those who follow must receive the Spirit's empowering as he did not begin ministry until baptized with the Holy Spirit and power.
Those who suffer with him will reign with him and be glorified, for suffering comes before glory and the cross before the crown on the way to endless day. Walking in his footsteps means bearing crosses in his name through struggle and remaining faithful until the path ends in life in the holy land freed from sin, curse and shame. His life of self-denial and suffering sets the pattern as the only sure way to reach the end he reached, and heaven is not to be expected without sharing in that suffering. The narrow road marked by his footsteps calls for patient endurance under a life ruled by God's word rather than seeking the world's applause or pleasure, with the faithful who persevere looking to receive the crown when the Master returns. True following stays steadfast in evil report as in good report when trial comes and clouds gather, denying self instead of gratifying wishes, continuing testimony, encouraging words, prayer and the family altar rather than serving only when the battle goes prosperously.
Following through tribulation leads home to God with peace, joy and rest, joint-heirship as sons, and final victory when the Redeemer conquers foes, ends warfare and leads saints over death. His footsteps mark the narrow pathway to God made fair in every condition of cloud or sunshine, tempest or rain, and wearing his yoke in fellowship is a blessed privilege. They are found in self-sacrificing service even to distant and difficult places, including missionary labor among people in need, and mark a path that can be trod even through pain by the light that guided earlier faithful people. He trod the path and bore curse and woes so that followers may have victory over foes in him and be led onward, accepting hardship, scorn and burdens with resignation rather than shrinking, for faithful endurance leads to a crown.
His life is the bond of union among believers, and contemplating his sufferings and what he has done lifts minds from self to restore love and unity. The call to follow means meekly following the dying Lord in suffering, rejoicing in tribulation, bearing witness to truth, and sealing testimony with blood as the twelve apostles did, with faithful suffering causing the faith to live on in thousands of humble hearts who follow the same path. Followers make his character known through self-denial, sacrifice, meekness, lowliness and good words and works, with truthful speech and lives, and whoever follows will be approved as good and faithful servant entering the joy of the Lord. Following means loving him and the souls he died for and pursuing peace without surrendering truth to prevent discord or sacrificing principle to ward off division, since true brotherhood cannot be kept by compromise. It means approaching the model in purity of spirit and action, staying true when opposition excites the serpent's venom, remembering truth was too dearly purchased to surrender its least principle, allowing concessions on feeling but never of principle for harmony, and returning kind acts for malice to exert correct influence and stand approved in judgment.
The exact point to copy is not obedience by itself but obedience joined with suffering, for human virtues prove trustworthy only when tested and testing comes only through suffering. Christians therefore bear trials thankfully, even thanking God when he removes what tears the heart, because he does not willingly bring pain but sends affliction only to work further blessing, it is good to be afflicted, and affliction produces a far greater and eternal glory. Jesus ever lives as priest needing no successor, while believers as his brethren and servants are called meekly to follow in his footsteps and do his will. Healed soul-blindness is needed to see and follow his footprints, and when mercy, pardon and sight are given believers can still see them and keep following even when shadows fill the earth.
His sacrifice shows the cost of salvation, and rightly valuing eternal life leads believers to accept that cost and follow in his footsteps. His life is an example to follow by seeking to live like him while bearing life's burdens and relying on God for strength, drawing on the same source of power he used. Suffering can be sanctified for good by drawing a person nearer to him and making that person more like him, and seeking to be like him even when trials bring suffering prepares for greater trials and service to others. The pain met on the path is not unlike what the saints endured, whose footsteps still point the way, and the divine life that sustained them is available through faith, love and prayer. Following means seeking God's help to live more nearly in his footsteps, learning to walk in them here in order to follow the Lamb where the 144,000 go. Remembering what he suffered gives strength to endure danger, loss and hardship for telling others about God and Jesus, such suffering being small compared with his.