mimeomai means to follow a person’s example or pattern of conduct, whether commended or rejected.

The attested use concerns following an example or pattern of conduct: believers are directed toward the conduct of leaders and apostolic examples, while evil is explicitly set in contrast with good as something not to follow.

1. Following an example of conduct · dominant

   In 2 Thessalonians 3:7 and 2 Thessalonians 3:9, the present middle infinitive occurs with the writers’ non-idle conduct and their presentation of themselves as an example. In Hebrews 13:7, the present middle plural form directs hearers to consider their leaders’ way of life and to follow their faith; 3 John 1:11 applies the same action negatively and positively, as the APB renders, “do not imitate evil but good.”

   2 Thessalonians 3:72 Thessalonians 3:93 John 1:11Hebrews 13:7

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB uses “imitate” in all four verses, presenting the action as following apostolic or leadership examples and as refusing evil in favor of good. Its wording confirms the clauses’ overall presentation rather than supplying a separate lexical distinction.