1 Corinthians 11:1

Followers. Gr. mimetai, “imitators.” Our word “mimics” comes from this Greek word. This verse more suitably forms the conclusion of ch. 10 than the introduction to ch. 11. In asking the Corinthians to give up their own desires and pleasures for the sake of others who might misunderstand their motives, Paul asks them to do only what he himself did. He had first shown them by his own example how they ought to behave in relation to the will of God, and then, with the words of this verse, he brings to a conclusion his discussion of the matter of eating meat offered to idols and partaking in idol feasts (see Rom. 15:1-3; 1 Cor. 8:13; 1 Cor. 9:12, 19, 22, 23).

As I. Every minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ ought to be able to appeal to his hearers to imitate his example in following the Master. If he cannot, there is every reason for him to search his own heart and to plead with God that he may live for Him in all respects, and not for self in anything. Paul made Christ his pattern, and he could safely exhort the Corinthians to follow his example. Christ is the great example for all men, and Christians should look to Him for guidance, and accept only that which is in complete harmony with His teaching and example (see Matt. 16:24).