Imitation

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Scripture

Phil. 3:17 Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us.

Observation

Paul saw Jesus Christ as the great example for his life. He wanted to be more and more like Christ — he wanted to know Christ! He lived his life imitating Christ, but then went on to urge those whom he had discipled to imitate him. Christ followers were to be living examples for others. Imitation of Christ and of those reflecting Christ was to be the norm.

Application

Shop for a good purse these days and you may be wondering whether you are seeing an imitation or the real thing? Sometimes we encounter knock-offs so good we don’t know if they are the real thing or not. They have imitated the real thing to the point where the differences are hardly detectible.

Christ-followers are to be incredible imitators of him! The likeness to the original is to be so great that people will have to inspect to see where there may be differences.

There is a synergism between the grace of God which draws us in his direction and our desire and activity in imitation of him. Imitation is not a bad thing when it comes to imitating Christ.

Prayer

Lord, lead me into greater imitation of you from day to day. Amen.

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