“For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example, so that you may follow in His steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)
In 1976, a book entitled How Should We Then Live? was published. The book detailed the rise and decline of Western culture and posed that question to believers. It was written by Francis Schaeffer, a philosopher, evangelical Presbyterian pastor, theologian, author of 23 books, and a key figure in the 1970s Jesus movement. It is still a question we need to address within the culture we currently live in.
The 1 Peter 2:21 verse is the answer to the question, “How do we then live?” We live by following Jesus’ example and following in His footsteps. As Pastor Ryan explained, the Greek word used for “example” is hypogrammos, meaning “tracing over.” It reminded me, as a former primary school teacher, of how children were taught to write. Children trace over lines and circles, and eventually trace the letters of the alphabet to learn to write them without a pattern. Recently, I learned that the best way for children to learn is to use a grooved pattern, allowing the child to embed the pencil more easily and stay on the pattern. Evidently, this creates muscle memory that makes writing easier to learn. It is a good metaphor for following Christ’s example. We believers must embed ourselves in Him so our following His example becomes our natural thing to do.
Let us look at just a few of Christ’s examples for us to follow:
“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…” (Philippians 2:5-7)
Jesus emptied Himself of all that is rightfully His so that God’s plan for our redemption could be fulfilled. So, I ask, what do I need to empty myself of so I can follow Your example?
In John 13, before the serving of the Last Supper, we read of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, and He says, “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done.” (John 13:15)
The King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, the Savior of the world, washed their feet! I have no words for this act of servanthood, but may I be embedded in this example: “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example, so that you may follow in His steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)
Peter details more examples in verses 22-24, and may we embed ourselves in these examples. Take some time to ponder how those verses speak to you!
Prayer:
Father, I want to live for Your glory, following in the steps of Jesus. Show me how to embed myself more deeply in Him. Draw me closer to You and thank You that if I get out of step with Jesus, I know You will direct me back to His path.
In His name I pray! Amen.
Francie Overstreet
EFCC Member