so he went up to Mount Zalmon with his men. There he took an ax, cut a limb off a tree, and put it on his shoulder. He told his men to hurry and do the same thing.

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me.

Imitate me, then, just as I imitate Christ.

Remember your former leaders, who spoke God's message to you. Think back on how they lived and died, and imitate their faith.

Do not try to rule over those who have been put in your care, but be examples to the flock.