They had turned to God from idols. And it showed in how they lived. Instead of living to serve only their appetites, they became known for serving the living and true God. No longer were they simply working for stuff and status in the world, but their focus shifted to waiting for God’s Son from heaven (1Thess. 1:9-10).

So, how does that happen? Where do you start? How do you know what you’re supposed to do (and not supposed to do) when you get “delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of God’s beloved Son” (Col. 1:13)?

You follow the leader.

And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.

(1Thessalonians 1:6-7 ESV)

They received the word in much affliction. Believing the gospel, though evidence of God’s calling and the Spirit’s working (1:2), came immediately with cultural pressure and societal tribulation. How come? Because they very quickly became counter-cultural. Soon they were no longer going with the flow but swimming against the current. And that, because they followed the leader. They became imitators.

Imitators. Mimics. Copycats. That’s how they knew what to do as believers. That’s what brought on much affliction from their family, friends, and neighbors.

They traded in their WWWD bracelets (What Would the World Do?) for a WWPD bracelet (What Would Paul Do?). And before long they were sporting a WWJD bracelet (What Would Jesus Do?). They became imitators. They followed the leader.

Seems to me that while there’s a ton to learn about the Christian way, it doesn’t take a lot to start the Christian walk. All you need to do is find another Christian a few steps ahead of you and walk like they walk. Then start reading the gospels to see how Jesus did life and talked about life and imitate that too. Not in your own power, but in the power of the Spirit. Not perfectly, but boldly and intentionally — confident that the grace able to save you is also all-sufficient to sanctify you.

No matter where we are in our pilgrimage, there’s an imitator of Jesus who’s a few steps ahead of us. Someone who’s traveled a few more miles than we have, someone who’s gone down roads we may just be entering. There’s always someone we can imitate. Someone we can follow.

And beyond that someone, there’s the Savior. One who knows firsthand our wanderings and our weaknesses, who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin (Heb. 2:17, 4:15). So, imitate Him. With holy determination, and with Spirit-infused preoccupation, seek to live like Jesus. Even as Jesus has said He lives in You (Gal. 2:20).

So, mimic those who led you to Christ. Imitate those who lead your church. And, do what Jesus would do, the One who led you to Himself.

Easy? Nope.

Simple? I’m thinkin’ . . .

Just follow the leader . . .

By His grace. For His glory.