(The Singer by Calvin Miller)

A carpenter’s son would stand at his father’s shoulder when he reached the age of twelve or thirteen. He would observe everything his father did. He would hear the plans. He would participate in the preparation. He would follow instructions. He would learn to shape timber into tools, furniture, and houses. The father would initiate. The son would respond with like action.

Jesus chose twelve men in particular as apprentices. They would be with Jesus and hear what he said and observe what he did. Then they would join him in his work. Then he would send them out to do the work and report back. Finally, he would commission them to carry on his work and accomplish greater things than he himself could do alone (John 14:12).

The Apostle Paul learned this lesson well and passed it along. He said, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ,” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Earlier in this same book, he said something similar. In 4:15-17, he says more about this principle.

“For you may have countless instructors in Christ, but you don’t have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Therefore I urge you to imitate me. This is why I have sent Timothy to you. He is my dearly loved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you about my ways in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.”

Paul followed the model of Jesus.

• Jesus did what the Father did. 
• Paul did what Jesus did. 
• Timothy did what Paul did. 

At whose shoulder do you stand to learn the rhythms and routines, the lifestyle of discipleship? Who provides you with instruction, example, and encouragement? Who helps you keep the promises you make to God and to yourself? Who helps you do what Jesus would do if he were you?

Who is your Timothy? Where is your Corinth?

A family, a workplace, and a community each require someone who will follow the model of Jesus and Paul in knowing what our Father wants and cooperating with him in bringing it to reality where we live, work, and play. This is life’s greatest privilege and most solemn responsibility.

Where is God at work around you? Join him along with others who are following the pattern of Jesus and Paul. Take your Timothy or Tammy to learn and to serve together.