I might as a father command you, but I beseech you, be ye followers of me, in preserving the unity and promoting the holiness of the church. He expounds this, 1 Corinthians 11:1: Be ye followers of me, as I am of Christ. Holiness of life and conversation is necessary to a true minister of Christ; for their people ought not only to be their hearers, but their followers; they are ensamples to the flock, 1 Peter 5:3, and ought to be examples of believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity, 1 Timothy 4:12; in all things showing themselves patterns of good works; in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, & c., Titus 2:7. Those who teach well and live ill, are no good ministers of Christ; they cannot say unto people: Be ye followers of me.
Related Commentaries of 1 Corinthians 4:16
1 Corinthians 4:16
16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.