### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μιμέομαι (miméomai) fundamentally means "to imitate," "to emulate," or "to follow as an example." Derived from a root that gives us the English word "mimic," it implies a deliberate and intentional act of reproducing the actions, qualities, or character of another. As a middle voice verb, miméomai suggests that the subject performs the action for themselves or on themselves, indicating a volitional engagement in the process of imitation rather than a passive or involuntary copying. The semantic range extends beyond mere superficial copying to encompass a deeper adoption of the pattern or model presented, aiming to internalize and embody the observed virtues or behaviors.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb μιμέομαι (`{{G3401}}`) appears four times in the New Testament, primarily in contexts of ethical and spiritual instruction:
* **[[2 Thessalonians 3:7]]**: "For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you." Here, Paul encourages the Thessalonian believers to emulate his and his companions' diligent work ethic and self-sufficiency. The imitation is of practical, responsible conduct, contrasting with any tendency towards idleness.
* **[[2 Thessalonians 3:9]]**: "It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate." Paul reiterates his intention to serve as a living "example" (τύπος, `{{G5179}}`) for the Thessalonians, emphasizing that his conduct was a deliberate model for them to follow, not merely a personal preference.
* **[[Hebrews 13:7]]**: "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith." This verse calls believers to observe the life and enduring faith (πίστις, `{{G4102}}`) of their spiritual leaders, particularly those who have passed on, and to emulate their steadfastness and trust in God. The imitation is specifically of a spiritual virtue.
* **[[3 John 1:11]]**: "Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God." This passage presents a stark moral imperative. John directly contrasts imitating "evil" (κακός, `{{G2556}}`) with imitating "good" (ἀγαθός, [[G18)), linking the choice of imitation directly to one's spiritual origin and relationship with God. This is the only instance where miméomai is used in a negative prohibition.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words and concepts in the New Testament are closely related to μιμέομαι ([[G3401]]), enriching its meaning:
* **μιμητής (mimētēs, [[G3402]]):** This noun, meaning "an imitator," is frequently used in parallel or as a direct result of μιμέομαι. Paul often uses it to call believers to be "imitators" of himself, and ultimately of Christ (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 4:16]]; [[1 Corinthians 11:1]]; [[Ephesians 5:1]]; [[1 Thessalonians 1:6]]).
* **τύπος (typos, [[G5179]]):** Meaning "pattern" or "example," this noun often serves as the object or basis for imitation. Leaders are presented as τύποι to be μιμέομαι.
* **ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō, [[G190]]):** "To follow," often in the sense of physically accompanying or becoming a disciple. While akoloutheō can imply imitation, miméomai more strongly emphasizes the replication of character or behavior.
* **παράδειγμα (paradeigma, {{G3856]]):** "An example, pattern." Similar to τύπος, it refers to something set forth for imitation or warning.
* **Discipleship:** The entire concept of Christian discipleship inherently involves imitation. A disciple (μαθητής, `{{G3101}}`) is one who learns from and follows their teacher, ultimately aiming to become like them.
### Theological Significance
The concept of imitation, conveyed by μιμέομαι (`{{G3401}}`), holds profound theological significance:
* **Theological Foundation for Christ-likeness:** Although μιμέομαι is not directly used to command the imitation of Christ (the noun μιμητής is), the principle it embodies is foundational to the Christian call to Christ-likeness. The imitation of godly leaders is presented as a crucial step in the process of spiritual formation, guiding believers towards the ultimate pattern, Christ himself. Believers are called to walk "as he walked" ([[1 John 2:6]]).
* **Ethical and Moral Imperative:** The New Testament uses μιμέομαι to underscore a strong ethical imperative. Christians are not merely to absorb doctrine but to actively embody righteous conduct. The explicit command in [[3 John 1:11]] to "imitate good" and not "evil" highlights the moral choice inherent in discipleship and the direct link between one's actions and one's relationship with God.
* **Role of Exemplary Leadership:** The passages in Thessalonians and Hebrews emphasize the vital role of spiritual leaders as living examples. Leaders are not only teachers of truth but also models of how to live out that truth. Their lives provide a tangible, observable pattern for believers to follow, demonstrating faith, diligence, and integrity.
* **Active and Intentional Discipleship:** μιμέομαι implies an active, conscious, and volitional engagement in the process of spiritual growth. It is not passive conformity but a deliberate effort to align one's behavior, character, and values with a godly model. This underscores the personal responsibility of believers in their sanctification.
* **Community and Mentorship:** The call to imitate leaders fosters a dynamic of mentorship and community within the church. It encourages observation, learning, and accountability, recognizing that spiritual growth often occurs through observing and emulating those who are further along in their walk with God.
### Summary
The Greek verb μιμέομαι (`{{G3401}}`) denotes an active and intentional act of imitation, emulation, or following an example. Though sparingly used in the New Testament, its four occurrences carry significant weight, consistently urging believers to reproduce the godly conduct, faith, and diligence observed in spiritual leaders ([[2 Thessalonians 3:7]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:9]], [[Hebrews 13:7]]). The stark command in [[3 John 1:11]] to "imitate good" and not "evil" underscores the profound moral choice inherent in Christian living. While μιμέομαι itself does not directly command the imitation of Christ, it establishes the fundamental principle of active emulation that underpins the broader New Testament teaching on Christ-likeness. It highlights the crucial role of exemplary leadership, the ethical imperative of choosing righteousness, and the active, volitional nature of discipleship in the believer's journey towards spiritual maturity.
TRV