Though some of the Corinthian Christians had been haughty, selfish, and even insulting toward Paul, Paul continued to love them as his own children. They had different Bible teachers and guides, but Paul was truly like a father to them because of the gospel. He had initially spent a year and a half teaching them the word of God (Ac 18:11). They saw how his teaching and his life were the same – both rooted in the gospel. Paul urged them to imitate him. He sent Timothy to remind them that his way of life in Christ Jesus agreed with everything he taught, and that he taught the same gospel in every church. Does your life and lifestyle reflect what you say and teach about Jesus? Ask God to help you imitate Christians like Paul so that your way of life may be consistent with the gospel.

Paul was planning to visit them soon to rebuke those who had become arrogant. The prideful church members said many things, but they had no spiritual power to support their words. God’s kingdom is not a matter of talk but of God’s power. Paul would challenge the boastful people who would be revealed as having nothing more than empty words. The Corinthian Christians would see God’s power working through Paul.
Application: Father, thank you for warning us not to imitate the world but to imitate faithful Christians. May my way of life be pleasing to you and consistent with what I say and teach about Jesus.
One Word: Live out what you teach