This verse serves as a type of a summary statement of previous verses in this chapter. Take a moment to review Ephesians 3.7-16. Today’s Daily gives a great example of the importance of context as we approach Scripture. Taken out of context, the reader may think that imitating Paul and his followers is the ultimate goal in this verse. However, as we review, we can see that Paul has been continually pointing his readers to Christ.

Paul’s goal is Christ’s goal for him. He wanted others to see Christ and His priorities in him. As Paul reflected Jesus’s light into the world, it would be worthy of imitation. As we fix our eyes on God and obey His will in our life through His power, we too can be a light in a dark world.

Who are we imitating today? The world, friends, those we see on social media, bosses? Or are we looking to Christ and His example played out through real people in His redemptive work?

Here are some additional verses where Paul makes a similar plea to other churches:

Ephesians 5.1 “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.”

1 Thessalonians 1.6 “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,”

1 Corinthians 4.15-16 “For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.

Philippians 3.17

17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Who is Paul addressing in the verse?

+ “Join in...” says Paul. What mission is Paul asking you and I to join?

+ Who are we to imitate according to the verse?

+ Who, in context, are we to imitate ultimately? [Review Philippians 3.7-16]

+ Where should we as believers “keep our eyes?” Who are we “watching” today?

+ How does what or who we “keep our eyes on” affect our personal walk and witness?

+ How does our personal walk and witness affect other brothers and sisters in Christ? How might it affect the watching world?

+ How can our daily time in God’s Word help us walk and be a godly example to others?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ In what ways have you and I taken our eyes off the goal of glorifying God and enjoying Him each day?

+ What specific ways can you and I embrace daily “distractions” as an opportunity to join in God’s mission in the world?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Who has the Lord given you eyes to see today?

+ What word of encouragement, love, truth, or correction might this person need?

+ How might your words and witness redirect them to the goal or encourage them to join in the mission?