J.A. Matteson
To what or to whom are you looking to for guidance in your pilgrims journey toward heaven? Unless the example of discipleship by men is solidly forged in the furnace of affliction in pursuit of Jesus Christ you are on a fools errand emulating them. "For I gave you an example that you should do as I did to you" (Jn. 13:15). How am I to live, love, persevere, exhort, forgive, minister, depend, rest, teach or hope apart from the example of Jesus Christ? Follow the example of no man who is not himself following Jesus Christ. So close in heart to Jesus Christ was the apostle Paul that he dared to proclaim, "Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us" (Phil. 3:17). When our life is hidden in Jesus Christ His life giving transformational Spirit produces in us that which is well pleasing in His sight (2 Pet. 1:6-9). As you journey set the supreme example of Jesus Christ before you, intently study Him, when you consider in what manner you are to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). Only by being closely acquainted with Him will you develop the discernment to know which examples among men are worthy of your consideration.