What does Paul command the Philippians in Philippians 3:17?
Paul commands the Philippians to be followers together of him and to mark those who walk according to the example he and his companions set. He calls them to imitate his willingness to follow him for the sake of the gospel, since they had experienced God's grace and suffered for the gospel.
Les explains that Paul had a warm affection for the Philippians because they loved him and nursed him back to health after he nearly died in Philippi. In Philippians 3:17, Paul says, "Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them who walk so as you have us for an example." Les notes that the "us" includes Paul himself and his companions like Timothy and Titus. Since the Philippians had experienced God's saving grace, suffered for the sake of the gospel, and given up much, Paul says, "be willing to follow me for the sake of the gospel." So the command is to follow Paul's example and to recognize those who walk consistently with that example.
Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
More Questions
What does Philippians 3:17 tell believers to do regarding Paul?
Philippians 3:17 commands believers to be followers together of Paul and to mark those who walk as Paul and his companions as examples.
Why does Paul tell the Philippians to be followers of him?
Paul can say 'be willing to follow me' because the Philippians had experienced God's saving grace, had suffered for the sake of the gospel, and had given up so much for the gospel, so he calls them to follow him for the sake of the gospel.