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.
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.
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.
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.
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