Welcome to Faith Connections Friday!
Follow the Leader is a popular children’s game in which the designated leader does an action, and the followers mimic (or imitate) the action. The follower places a trust in the leader to guide them in a way best leading them to the desired destination. The leader has to know where to go and how to clearly and safely direct the followers to reach the goal.
We are given examples of leaders to follow in Scripture and their directions. Paul encourages us to “become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]” (Ephesians 5:1, AMP). Paul also encouraged the Corinthians to imitate him (1 Corinthians 4:16). This statement for Paul challenges him to be constantly aware of his own actions so he is a model for them to follow. It causes the follower to study Paul’s lifestyle, ensuring it best reflects Christ, and is an opportunity to hold Paul accountable.
Our Faith Connection: The best way for us to know how to appropriately lead our followers and follow our leaders is an examination of living according to Scripture. First, we examine our own lives to ensure we are properly reflecting Christ. Do we/they reflect the character of Christ? Do we/they exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-23)?
Hebrews 13:7 (NET) says, “Remember your leaders, who spoke God’s message to you; reflect on the outcome of their lives and imitate their faith.”
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