Follow Me as I Follow Christ

Central Idea Statement: The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation; it is a life of example and influence. When we follow Christ wholeheartedly, we become a trustworthy pattern others can follow toward salvation and faithful living.

INTRODUCTION

We live In a world full of conflicting voices and shifting standards.

Christians are called to live lives that point others to Jesus Christ.

Paul’s bold statement to the Corinthians was not rooted in arrogance, but in his unwavering commitment to follow Christ faithfully. His life became a living example of discipleship—a model for others to emulate.

OBJECTIVES

Living a Life Worthy of Imitation

Following the Ultimate "Point Man"

Follow Christ to Lead Others to Salvation

1. Living a Life Worthy of Imitation

The concept of “Do as I say and Not as I do” should be foreign to a Child of God.

Paul made a bold proclamation we he said “Follow me as I follow Christ”

His life was shaped by unwavering conviction rooted in the teachings of Christ.

Galatians 2:19–20 ESV

For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

The best sermon you can give, and the greatest Bible study you can teach, is the life you live in front of others

Our core identity as Christians is to be followers of Jesus

Matthew 4:19 ESV

And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

2. Following the Ultimate "Point Man"

Just as a point man leads a squad through dangerous territory, believers are called to follow Jesus, the ultimate "Point Man," and in turn, lead others.

Our lives should be a visible example of Christ.

1 Peter 2:21 ESV

For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

John 10:27 ESV

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

Philippians 2:5–8 ESV

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Christ's example was not one of worldly power, but of humility, service, and sacrifice.

To follow Christ means to die to self and live for others, just as He did.

Paul mirrored this attitude in his ministry, enduring hardship for the sake of the Gospel.

3. Follow Christ to Lead Others to Salvation

1 Timothy 4:12 ESV

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

1 Timothy 4:16 ESV

Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Paul understood that others were watching, and his example could either draw people to Christ or push them away.

Our influence has eternal consequences; living faithfully to Christ can inspire belief and obedience in others.

Making disciples and being a mentor in much more than just a dissemination of truth.

Teaching truth must be accompanied by living truth.

Application: Our goal is not to gain followers for ourselves, but to lead souls to Christ. Let your life preach the Gospel even before your words do.

CONCLUSION

Paul’s call to “Follow me as I follow Christ” is a challenge to every believer to become a faithful example in a faithless world.

By following Christ with conviction, humility, and a soul-winning purpose, we not only secure our own salvation but become a guidepost for others on the road to heaven.