“Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.”
Only let us conduct ourselves according to the pattern we have established, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example we give you — the household code pattern and exemplary living replace abstract doctrine. Typos (pattern, model) is visual instruction: see and imitate. 'Walk' (peripatēō, conduct daily life) shows Christian life is observable practice. 'Those who... walk according to the example' (peripateō kata typon) stresses imitation: community is formed by following exemplars. Living witness precedes verbal doctrine.
Church Fathers on Philippians 3:17
“Brethren, be ye imitators of me, and mark them which so walk even as you have us for an ensample.” He had said above, “beware of dogs,” from such he had led them away; he brings them near to these whom they ought to imitate. If any one, says he, wishes to imitate me, if any one wishes to walk the same road, let him take heed to them; though I am not present, you know the manner of my walk, that is, my conduct in life. For not by words only did he teach, but by deeds too; as…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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