Jesus Christ, example of

Jesus Christ sets his disciples an example, especially in servanthood, self-denial and endurance of suffering, so that they may become like him.

Jesus Christ calls believers to follow his example

John 13:14–16 See also Hebrews 3:1, Hebrews 12:2–3; 1 Peter 2:21; 1 John 2:6

So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you. Truly, truly, I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.

The qualities of Jesus Christ which set an example for believers

Self-denial

Philippians 2:4–5 See also Matthew 10:38, Matthew 16:24 parallels Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23; Luke 14:27; Hebrews 12:2

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus:

Endurance of suffering

1 Peter 2:21–23 See also Matthew 10:24–25; John 15:20; 1 Thessalonians 2:14–15; Hebrews 12:3

For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.

Service

Matthew 20:25–28 parallel Mark 10:42–45; John 13:13–17

Faithfulness

Hebrews 3:1–2

Love

Ephesians 5:1–2, Ephesians 5:25; 1 John 3:16

Patience

1 Timothy 1:16

Forgiveness of others

Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13

Gentleness and humility

Matthew 11:29

Purity

1 John 3:3

Prayer

Luke 11:1

God wants his people to follow Jesus Christ's example and be conformed to his image

Romans 8:29; 1 Corinthians 15:49

Those who followed Jesus Christ's example

1 Corinthians 11:1 Paul; 1 Thessalonians 1:6 the converts in Thessalonica; Acts 7:60 Stephen is following the example set by Jesus Christ in Luke 23:34.