Brothers and sisters, join in following my example and notice those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. (
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—put these things into practice, and the God of shalom will be with you.
I urge you therefore—be imitators of me.
Don’t lord it over those apportioned to you, but become examples to the flock.
It wasn’t that we had no right, but rather to offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate.
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.
Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but become an example of the faithful—in speech, in conduct, in love, in faithfulness, and in purity.
For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, for we did not behave inappropriately among you.
Give no offense either to Jewish or Greek people or to God’s community—
If anyone does not obey our message in this letter, take special note of him and do not associate with him, so that he may be put to shame.
You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having accepted the message in much tribulation, with the joy of the Ruach ha-Kodesh.
Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep your eye on those who are causing divisions and stumbling blocks, contrary to the teaching that you learned. Turn away from them.
Notice the man of integrity and watch the upright— for the man of shalom has a future.
Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Messiah.