Why does Paul tell the Corinthians to be followers of Jesus Christ?
Paul urges the Corinthians to follow Christ because he had brought them the gospel—the message that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again for justification. Since they received that gospel through his ministry, he appeals to them to follow Christ in response. The context presents this as a direct appeal grounded in the gospel he preached.
Les explains that Paul had brought the gospel to the Corinthians, so in verse 16 he urges them, 'Wherefore, I beseech you, be ye followers of Jesus Christ.' The gospel Paul preached was that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again for our justification. Les emphasizes there is nothing in that gospel about a mandated baptism, joining something, or doing something; it is simply believing it. Paul's appeal to follow Christ is grounded in that same gospel he had already delivered to them.
For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
More Questions
Does Paul ever tell believers to follow him instead of Jesus?
In Paul's epistles he does not say 'be ye followers of Jesus Christ' as everyone assumes he should, but rather says 'be ye followers of me.'
Which verses tell believers to be followers of Paul?
Three verses in a row say the same thing — 'be ye followers of me' — found in 1 Corinthians 4, Philippians 3, and 1 Corinthians 11.
What does Paul ask the Corinthians to do in 1 Corinthians 4:16?
Paul beseeches, or begs, the Corinthians to be followers of him.
Why does Paul say 'I beseech you' instead of commanding the Corinthians to follow him in 1 Corinthians 4:16?
In 1 Corinthians 4:16, Paul beseeches (begs) the Corinthians to follow him rather than commanding them, because he cannot command it.