The Verse of the Day

-September 17, 2020-

Good morning, happy Thursday,

-Be Imitators Of God-

“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.”

(Ephesians 5:1).

Paul used many metaphors to describe the Christian life: walking, running, boxing, wrestling, farming, among others. Here in our text he employs acting in the theatre. The actor imitates the character he is playing.

One of the highest aspirations we as believers in Christ can aspire to is to be an imitator of God. To walk as the Lord Jesus walked, to talk as He talked should be our goal and pursuit daily. 1 John 2:6 says, “He who says he abides in Him ought himself to also to walk just as He walked.”

The word imitators used here in Ephesians 5:1 is the same one used in 1 Corinthians 11:1. It is the Greek word mimeomai, meaning a mimic, an actor, or a mime. The verb is always used in exhortations, and always in the continuous tense, suggesting a constant habit or practice. W.E. Vine describes this way in his Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words.

When one imitates another they become like the other person. The old expression is certainly true, “Like father, like son.” Children desire to be like their parents. They mimic their words, facial expressions, and actions. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” Paul was a great role model, and the Lord wants us to be worthy role models and mentors as well.

In order to imitate someone, you have know them well, hold them in high esteem, and want to be like them. Oscar Wilde once said, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” There are many basketball players who want to be like Michael Jordan.

As believers we want to follow the example of Jesus and the apostles who followed Him. To do this we must be saved and know and obey the Scriptures. The acronym from quite a few years ago was WWJD, “What Would Jesus Do.” It is still so relevant today.

May the Lord help us to be imitators of God as dear children. When we do, others will want to imitate us. We have a big responsibility to live for Christ and like Christ.

Have a blessed day imitating Christ and being a good role model to others. Stay safe and healthy.

Dean