Jesus Christ-The Foremost Exemplar

Although Paul himself had set an example worthy of imitation, he did not fail to point to Jesus Christ as the primary example that Christians should follow.  (1 Thessalonians 1:6)  Christ was and is our foremost Exemplar.  The apostle Peter wrote:  "To this course you were called, because even Christ suffered for you, leaving you a model for you to follow his steps closely." -1 Peter 2:21.

However, Jesus finished his life as a human almost 2,000 years ago.  Now he "dwells in unapproachable light" as an immortal spirit creature.  As such, "not one of men has seen or can see" him.  (1 Timothy 6:16)  How, then, can we imitate?  One way is by studying the four Bible accounts of Jesus' life.  The Gospels provide insight into his personality, life course, and "mental attitude." (Philippians 2:5-8)  Additional insight can be gained by carefully studying the book The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, which discusses the events of Jesus' life in great detail and in chronological order.

Jesus' self-sacrificing example had a powerful effect on the apostle Paul. He told the Corinthians:  "For my part I will most gladly spend and be completely spent for your souls."  (2 Corinthians 12:15)  What a Christlike attitude! As we contemplate Christ's perfect example, we too should be moved to imitate him in our own life course.

For instance, Jesus taught us that we should rely on God's promise to provide materially.  But he did more than that.  He demonstrated such faith and confidence in Jehovah on a daily basis. He said: "Foxes have dens and birds of heaven have roosts, but the Son of man has nowhere to lay down his head."  (Matthew 6:25; 8:20) Do material concerns dominate your thinking and actions? Or does you life give evidence that you are seeking the Kingdom first? And what about your attitude toward Jehovah's service? Is it like that of our Exemplar, Jesus?  The Bible shows that Jesus did not simply preach zeal but demonstrated fiery zeal on many occasions.  (John 2:14-17)  Further, what a fine example Jesus set when it came to love! Why, he sacrificed his own life for his disciples!  (John 15:13) Are you imitating  Jesus by showing glove to your Christians brothers? Or do you allow the imperfection of some to hinder your love for them?

In our striving to follow Christ's example, we will often fall short.  But surely Jehovah is pleased by our efforts to "put on the Lord Jesus Christ." -Romans 13:14.

Next time: "Examples to the Flock"

The Watchtower, 2000