3 Reasons Why We Need To Be A Follower
[quote style=”boxed”]Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor.
Ephesians 5:1-2[/quote]
We’re Supposed To Be Imitators of God
Did you know that God not only wants us to follow Him, but to imitate Him? The word “followers” in Ephesians 5:1-2 literally translates to “imitators” from the Greek word mimetes (mim-ay-tace). Imitation means copying, emulating, or reproducing something. For us to imitate God, we must set out to know God intimately and to discover how to become more like Him.
Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament, knew that this would require guidance and help. He was called by God to instruct the church in how to follow God. His instructions were simple:
[quote style=”boxed”]Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:1[/quote]
Paul reveals something very important in this verse:
The church needs men that are set apart by God to set an example for us to follow! We all need a man of God in our lives that’s helping us follow Christ. There’s nothing wrong with following a man who’s following God!
Why Is Following a Man of God So Important?
1. It’s Biblical
1 Corinthians 11:1, 1 Corinthians 4:16, & Hebrews 6:12 all tell us to follow, or imitate, those who are setting a godly example in our lives!
I need a pastor. You need a pastor. The Bible shows us that when we follow men of God who are helping us follow Christ, we have an example to follow and support in times of need.
2. It Gives Us An Example
[quote style=”boxed”]Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.
Philippians 3:17[/quote]
Although the Bible gives clear instruction on many topics, it’s important that we have an earthly example to follow. Pastors provide an example of how to apply biblical principles to our daily lives.
3. It Provides Support
[quote style=”boxed”]That you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Hebrews 6:12[/quote]
There are times when we become tired, lazy or distracted. When we’re following a pastor, and they’re leading us, they can help support us in a time of need. They’ll remind us of scripture, encourage our faith and help pull us out of a rut when we’re stuck!
Throughout the scriptures, we read of times when Paul (and other men of God) provided support to the church. The reason they were able to do so is because the people receiving instruction were submitted to following a man of God! Paul wasn’t just writing a letter for good practice, he was giving life-support to people who needed his wisdom. The same thing is available to us today when we find a God-ordained man in our lives to follow!
Find Someone To Follow
God will help connect you with a pastor who you can follow! Most of those who read this are already connected with a man of God who’s been set apart to lead people into a deeper relationship with Christ. It’s up to us to submit to a man of God and receive the instruction, support and love from someone who wants to see us succeed!
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