The Greek verb mimeomai means to imitate or to copy — to follow someone's example as a model for one's own behavior. It is the source of the English word 'mimic.' Paul uses it to call believers to imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1), to imitate apostolic examples of godly living (2 Thessalonians 3:7–9), and to imitate those whose faith we want to emulate.
Biblical imitation is not slavish copying but discipleship — the formation of character by close observation and intentional following of a worthy model. The chain is: believers imitate Paul as Paul imitates Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). This is spiritual mentorship made explicit. Hebrews 13:7 urges imitation of leaders whose faith and life have been proven. The ultimate model is always Christ himself (Ephesians 5:1: 'Be imitators of God').