Followers of Them: The Advantage of Models and Patterns
February 2024 | Apostle Joshua Selman
In this powerful teaching, “Followers of Them: The Advantage of Models and Patterns,” Apostle Joshua Selman explored the biblical and spiritual significance of following models and patterns in the Christian faith. Drawing from both Old and New Testament teachings, he illuminated the vital role that godly examples and established patterns play in the believer’s spiritual journey.
The message emphasized the need for believers to follow godly models and patterns to attain spiritual maturity, breakthrough, and alignment with God’s will. Apostle Selman highlighted that the Christian walk is not just about individual revelation, but also about understanding and adhering to divinely established patterns that have been set before us. He pointed out that just as in any other field of life, success in the kingdom of God requires proper guidance and alignment with the right examples.
Key Themes and Insights
1. The Power of Godly Models
Apostle Selman started by teaching that God’s kingdom operates through patterns. God often uses human beings to establish models and frameworks that guide others to walk in His will.
- Hebrews 6:12 – “That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”
- The Scripture calls believers to follow those who have exemplified faith and patience, showing that spiritual growth is often catalyzed by observing and learning from those who have walked in the ways of God before. The church is built upon these living examples—leaders, mentors, and biblical figures—who reflect the character and teachings of Christ.
2. God’s Pattern for the Believer’s Life
Apostle Selman elaborated that patterns are not just random or human-made; they are divinely instituted by God. Every area of a believer’s life has a pattern that God has established for us to follow, and adhering to these patterns ensures a life of peace, stability, and victory.
- Psalm 103:7 – “He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.”
- God’s ways (patterns) are revealed to us, and we must choose to follow them. Through the Holy Spirit, we are given the capacity to understand these divine patterns and the grace to walk in them. Whether it’s in our relationships, finances, or ministry, God has laid out a blueprint for us to follow.
3. The Role of Spiritual Fathers and Mentors
Apostle Selman emphasized that spiritual fathers, mentors, and leaders play a crucial role in helping believers discover and walk in God’s patterns. These individuals are often called by God to model kingdom principles, guide others, and point them to Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 11:1 – “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”
- Apostle Paul admonished the church to follow him as he followed Christ. This relationship is not about blind following, but rather a reflection of true discipleship. A godly model reflects Christ and directs others toward Him. The responsibility of spiritual leaders is to ensure that their lives align with the gospel, providing a pattern for others to follow.
4. The Danger of Ignoring God’s Patterns
Another vital aspect of this teaching was the warning against ignoring God’s patterns and trying to do things our own way. When individuals or communities neglect divine patterns, they expose themselves to confusion, error, and unnecessary struggles.
- Matthew 7:24-27 – “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock…”
- Ignoring God’s blueprint is like building a house on sand; the storms of life will easily tear it down. Following divine patterns is a safeguard for stability, success, and long-term victory in the believer’s life.
5. Patterns of Faith and Obedience
Apostle Selman spoke about how following the pattern of faith and obedience is crucial for accessing God’s promises. Many believers miss out on divine opportunities because they fail to adhere to God’s ways.
- Hebrews 11:8 – “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.”
- Abraham’s life is a classic example of following God’s pattern of faith and obedience. By following God’s instructions and stepping into the unknown, Abraham became the father of faith. Believers today must also trust in God’s pattern and be obedient to His call, regardless of how uncertain the journey may seem.
6. Patterns in the Kingdom: Corporate and Individual
Apostle Selman made the point that there are both corporate and individual patterns in the kingdom of God. The church as a whole has a divine structure and pattern that must be followed, and individual believers are called to align with God’s personal plans for their lives within that structure.
- Ephesians 4:11-13 – “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers… till we all come in the unity of the faith.”
- The apostolic and prophetic ministries serve as guides in establishing patterns for the church. Every believer is called to find their place within these patterns, whether in ministry, career, or personal development.
7. Impartation Through Patterns
Apostle Selman also discussed the concept of impartation, explaining that following godly patterns results in spiritual impartation. As believers follow the models of those who walk in divine wisdom and anointing, they can receive impartation and grace for their own lives.
- Romans 1:11 – “For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established.”
- When believers align themselves with godly patterns, they open themselves to the transfer of spiritual gifts, grace, and anointing that empower them to fulfill their divine assignments.
Practical Applications
- Identify and Follow Godly Models: Believers should seek out mentors, leaders, and biblical examples who align with the Word of God. Following them will accelerate spiritual growth and bring alignment with God’s will.
- Align with God’s Patterns: Study the Scriptures and discern God’s patterns for your life. Whether in marriage, ministry, finances, or other areas, discover the divine blueprint and walk in it.
- Spiritual Fathers and Accountability: It’s crucial for believers to have spiritual accountability. Find mentors or pastors who reflect Christ’s image and are willing to guide and correct you in love.
- Obedience to Divine Instructions: Adhering to God’s instructions, no matter how difficult or unconventional, is the key to unlocking blessings and promises. Trust in His plan and follow it faithfully.
- Avoid Deviation from God’s Path: Stepping outside of God’s pattern can lead to frustration and failure. Avoid shortcuts or methods that do not align with God’s Word.
- Embrace Impartation: Open your heart to receive from those who walk in greater wisdom and anointing. Impartation is a powerful means of accessing spiritual strength for your own journey.
Conclusion
In “Followers of Them: The Advantage of Models and Patterns,” Apostle Joshua Selman emphasized that following godly models and aligning with divine patterns is an essential aspect of the Christian life. By adhering to the biblical examples and teachings laid before us, we can experience spiritual maturity, avoid pitfalls, and walk in the fullness of God’s promises. As believers, we are called to not only follow Christ but also emulate the lives of those who have followed Him faithfully before us, ensuring that our lives are built on solid, godly foundations.
