### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mimētḗs**, represented by `{{G3402}}`, is defined as **an imitator** or **follower**. It is derived from μιμέομαι. Appearing **8 times** across **7 unique verses**, this term is crucial for understanding the concept of Christian discipleship as an act of imitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3402}}` is used to call believers to actively model their lives after a specific pattern. Believers are instructed to be **followers** of God, as dear children [[Ephesians 5:1]], and to be **followers** of Paul as he is a **follower** of Christ [[1 Corinthians 11:1]]. This chain of imitation extends to following the example of the churches of God [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]] and other believers who, through faith and patience, inherit the promises [[Hebrews 6:12]]. The act of becoming a **follower** is often associated with receiving the word amid affliction, yet with joy [[1 Thessalonians 1:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and nature of being a **follower**:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become): This verb, meaning **to become** or **come into being**, is frequently paired with `{{G3402}}`. It emphasizes that being a follower is a transformative process, as believers "became" followers of the Lord [[1 Thessalonians 1:6]] or are called to "be" followers of God [[Ephesians 5:1]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (God): As the supreme Divinity, **God** is presented as the ultimate model for imitation. Believers are called to be followers of **God** as beloved children, linking imitation directly to a familial relationship with Him [[Ephesians 5:1]].
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós** (Christ): As the anointed Messiah, **Christ** is the central figure to be imitated. Paul explicitly sets up this model, urging others to follow him only as he follows **Christ** [[1 Corinthians 11:1]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The call to imitation extends to the collective body of believers. The Thessalonians are commended for becoming followers of the **churches** in Judaea, particularly in their shared experience of suffering for their faith [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3402}}` centers on the active nature of Christian living.
* **The Pattern of Discipleship:** The term establishes a clear model for discipleship: believers imitate Christ, godly leaders imitate Christ, and the church collectively follows this pattern. Paul’s instruction, "be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ," forms a direct chain of accountability and example [[1 Corinthians 11:1]].
* **Familial Imitation:** Being a follower of God is tied to the identity of being His **dear** `{{G27}}` **children** `{{G5043}}` [[Ephesians 5:1]]. This implies that imitation is not a mechanical or legalistic duty, but the natural expression of a child reflecting the character of their father.
* **Emulation in Suffering:** Becoming a follower involves more than adopting beliefs; it includes sharing in experiences. The Thessalonians became followers by enduring **affliction** `{{G2347}}` and suffering like the **churches** `{{G1577}}` in **Judaea** `{{G2449}}`, demonstrating that imitation encompasses perseverance through trial ([[1 Thessalonians 1:6]], [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]]).
* **The Path to Inheritance:** Being followers is presented as the means to a spiritual end. Believers are urged not to be **slothful** `{{G3576}}`, but to be followers of those whose **faith** `{{G4102}}` and **patience** `{{G3115}}` led them to **inherit** `{{G2816}}` the **promises** `{{G1860}}` [[Hebrews 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3402}}` **mimētḗs** defines the Christian life as one of active imitation, not passive belief. It calls believers to pattern themselves after the ultimate examples of **God** `{{G2316}}` and **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, as well as the faithful apostles and **churches** `{{G1577}}` who have gone before them. This imitation is the essence of discipleship, shaping a believer's conduct through both joy and suffering, and serves as the pathway to inheriting the promises.
TRV