“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Philippians 3:17-18)
I have often heard nonbelievers denigrate Christianity by labeling Christians as hypocritical. Christians, they claim, say one thing but do another. They accuse others of sin but excuse their own sinful behavior. Now this may result from a misunderstanding of the concept of the teaching that a believer is simultaneously both Saint and sinner, not perfect yet forgiven. Yet often this accusation may actually be based on truth, perhaps because some believers do seem hypercritical and judgmental, lacking in love and compassion.
Therefore it is wise for all believers to heed the words of Paul to the believers at Philippi. He urged them to follow his teaching and way of life because he emulated Jesus Himself. Following him meant following Jesus, acting and speaking as Jesus did. Paul also He warned them to be wary of all those who came in Jesus’ name but were not His servants, whose lives did not imitate Jesus. Many of these false prophets and preachers were out to make a name for themselves or to accumulate money, power, and fame. They coerced trusting believers to obey them because of their authority and credentials, just as did the rulers of the Jews back in Jeremiah’s day, and as many in our day do.
Paul often cited his own credentials which included a fine Jewish heritage, but only to advance the gospel. He knew that salvation and righteousness do not come from credentials, fame, education, works, or achievements but from God. He imparts His grace and gifts to those He calls, to those He brings to repentance and faith.
These days many so-called leaders in the church and our world would hesitate to admit to a fault or sin even when caught red-handed. They want to be perceived as in control, having all the answers, faultless and free from doubt and temptation, successful and confident. So do the believers who follow them. Hence they often act without love or humility.
Quite a contrast to Paul. He let his audience know of his past life and present struggles. In spite of them, he pressed on in ministry, forgetting the sins of the past, knowing that he was forgiven in Christ, ignoring the deprivation and suffering of the present and working toward the glory of heaven. We ought to follow him as He followed Jesus.