This noun literally means footprint or track, but develops rich metaphorical use for following someone's example or path. Romans 4:12 speaks of 'those who walk in the footsteps of the faith of our father Abraham'—following his example. In 2 Corinthians 12:18 Paul asks whether he and Titus 'did not walk in the same footsteps'—the same conduct and spirit. First Peter 2:21 says Christ suffered, 'leaving you an example, that you should follow in his footsteps.' Classical usage includes tracks of game, traces, stepping softly, and metaphorically following someone's path. The New Testament use is entirely metaphorical—following the pattern or example left by predecessors in faith.