It could be that Paul is calling on the Galatians to become like him in the sense of living free from the terms and conditions of old covenant law.1 They must get rid of any idea which says that one can become righteous in God’s sight through imperfect adherence to old covenant law.2 Alternatively he is simply appealing to them to resume friendly relations with him.3 In either case, Paul regularly encouraged Christian believers to emulate him (1 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17). His life modelled the type of loving service and sacrifice that Jesus required of his followers (Luke 22:24–27).
12 Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong.