Imitate

We all make mistakes from time to time. Having said that, it does not excuse us from setting an example. Apostle Paul said, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

On the surface, it seems such a basic concept, but then it is very deep in its meaning. In telling others, “imitate me”, Apostle Paul is not drawing attention to himself but to the One he himself is modelling. Being a disciple means walking with Jesus and living out His teachings. Your life then amplifies the message of Christ to those around you, and you get an opportunity to tell them, “Follow my lead.”

This is a theme Apostle Paul addressed many times in his letters:
“For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, to be imitators of me. That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach them everywhere in every church.” (1 Corinthians 4:15-17)

“Brothers, join in imitating me. . . .” (Philippians 3:17)

The principle of imitation is how little children learn from their elders. Many art forms are also learned by imitation. All throughout the New Testament, scripture encourages us to imitate Christ, mature Christians, and faithful churches.

We are also cautioned not to imitate evil, avoiding even the appearance of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:22) Imitation is a bad thing when we tend to imitate what is outside of the boundaries of the word of God.

Today, it is almost unavoidable for our lives to stay hidden. We are always being watched, and in some way, our lives are always influencing somebody. Just think about the impact a lifestyle of imitating Christ would make on the world around you.

Is there an area of your life that you desperately want change?

It could be that you want to improve your parenting skills, learn how to strengthen your spiritual life, and learn how to work out. Do you need to get better at serving the Lord or simply playing an instrument? Whatever the case might be, look around for people who follow God and are better than you in that specific area in which you seek change.

That you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who, through faith and patience, inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:12)

Holy Spirit of the Living God, empower me to imitate Christ Jesus, Your Son, so that I, in turn, can be a powerful example to those around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.