One of the most famous commercials of all time was Michael Jordan’s “Be Like Mike” Gatorade spot. I can still hear the jingle in my head, though it aired nearly 30 years ago. Ironically, Michael Jordan said in 1997 that the NBA’s marketing of his jumping and dunking that appeared in the popular commercial hurt young kids’ fundamental skills because they imitated him instead of focusing on shooting and defense.

1 Corinthians 11 – Imitate Me As I Imitate Christ

Paul begins 1 Corinthians 11 by encouraging the Corinthians to “Be Like Paul.” He made the same statement earlier (4:16): “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (11:1). This is likely a summary statement that concludes 1 Corinthians 10 when Paul urges the Corinthians to follow his example of surrendering their rights and privileges for the sake of others (10:33).

As Paul turns in this chapter to the matter of proper conduct in worship, this verse (11:1) helps transition Paul’s praise of the Corinthians for following the teaching he had given them (11:2). At times, it feels like this entire letter is about correcting their wrong behavior, but there was something the church was doing right. This is a good reminder that all churches and teams can often be described this way. Even the most unified teams have their moments of conflict.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete urge their team to follow their positive example of leading and loving others with a Christlike example of selfless humility. They ultimately steer their team to look to Christ Himself as their example.

Journaling helps you understand and respond to the Bible. As you journal, use the acronym HEAR to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond to what you have read in the reading plan.

Bible Memory Verse – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. And there are varieties of workings, but the same God who works everything in everyone.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

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