Philippians 3:17 - Homilies By T. Croskery

The imitation of good men.

"Brethren, be ye imitators together of me, and mark them who walk so as ye have us for an ensample."

I. THE DUTY OF FOLLOWING GOOD EXAMPLES .

1 . We are commanded to do so. ( 1 Corinthians 11:1 .)

2 . The lives of many saints are expressly recorded for our imitation. ( James 5:10 , James 5:11 , James 5:17 ; Philippians 4:9 .)

3 . the imitation is limited by several circumstances.

II. THE USES OF SUCH IMITATION .

1 . It stimulates to higher and better living. We are therefore to imitate good men in the graces for which they are most distinguished ( Numbers 12:3 ; 1 Samuel 2:18 ; Job 1:21 ; Acts 5:41 ).

2 . It is afresh recommendation of the gospel. ( Matthew 5:16 .)

3 . It gives greater glory to God. ( Romans 7:4 .)—T.C.