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15 Let us, then, who are “perfectly mature” adopt this attitude. And if you have a different attitude, this too God will reveal to you. 16 Only, with regard to what we have attained, continue on the same course.[a]

Wrong Conduct and Our Goal.[b] 17 Join with others in being imitators of me,[c] brothers, and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.(A)

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Footnotes

  1. 3:16 Some manuscripts add, probably to explain Paul’s cryptic phrase, “thinking alike.”
  2. 3:17–21 Paul and those who live a life centered in Christ, envisaging both his suffering and resurrection, provide a model that is the opposite of opponents who reject Christ’s cross (cf. 1 Cor 1:23).
  3. 3:17 Being imitators of me: not arrogance, but humble simplicity, since all his converts know that Paul is wholly dedicated to imitating Christ (1 Cor 11:1; cf. also Phil 4:9; 1 Thes 1:6; 2 Thes 3:7, 9; 1 Cor 4:6).

Following Paul’s Example

15 All of us, then, who are mature(A) should take such a view of things.(B) And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.(C) 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

17 Join together in following my example,(D) brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.(E)

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