Philippians 3:17 17Become my fellow imitators, brothers [and sisters], and watch those who walk in this way, just as you have us as an example.
We do not need to struggle on our own to figure out the Christian journey. The path to maturity is not one to be taken alone. Paul urges the Philippians to look to good examples to help them grow into maturity. He mentions three different entities that they could follow. First, he gives himself as an example. The noun symmimētai literally mean fellow imitators. Paul’s goal in life was to imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1) and to be recreated into his image (2 Corinthians 3:18). At the focus of this imitation was love. Paul urges, through the imperative verb become, for the Philippians to join him in this journey.
The second they should watch those who walk in this way. Watch (skopeite) has the sense of peering and looking closely at something. The English word “scope” comes from this same Greek word. The Philippians should give attention to how those who follow the example of Christ live out their faith and grow in their love. This substantival participle “walking” (peripatountas)is used in the New Testament for how one lives, especially in a spiritual and moral sense. The lifestyle of those who are maturing in the faith in Christ should be evident. There are many believers who fit this description, although they may not be upfront in the church but behind the scenes. We will be wise in our spiritual growth to find examples like this, studying how they act and what motivates them, and then seeking to follow their example.
The third example (typon) the Philippians could follow is embedded within the pronoun us (hymas). There is not clear indicator who this included, but since Timothy is listed as co-author in 1:1, it at least included him. It could also include “those of use who are mature” of verse 15. Obviously, Paul includes himself in this. Part of the discipleship journey is imitating good examples of faith, commitment, love, and holiness. We do not slavishly follow people without discerning their weaknesses, but we can look at their best qualities and how they are seeking to become like Christ. That also calls us to be good examples ourselves to those who are around us. Our goal must be to know Christ and help others to know him as well.
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