Imitate God’s Character

Ephesians 5:1
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.

Application: 

Paul’s opening statement clarifies this: be imitators of God, as dearly loved children. In light of who we are in Christ, we are called to imitate God. As a child often mimics a parent’s characteristics and behavior, God’s children are to copy their heavenly Father. As beloved children, we have the same status as God’s “beloved Son” (Matt 3:17), so Jesus Christ is the model by which to pattern ourselves. The Son put the Father on display (see John 1:18). So if you don’t know how to pattern yourself after God the Father, take a close look at God the Son.

We imitate God by living lives characterized by love (5:2), light (5:8), and wisdom (5:15). Therefore, we must first walk in love, just as Christ loved us. Christians are to reflect the nature of God’s love by serving others rather than self. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the supreme illustration of what it means to love. It was a fragrant offering—it was acceptable to God. Similarly, when we love others by seeking what is best for their lives, it smells good to God.

The flip side is living in sexual immorality … impurity or greed. These things should not even be heard of among you, as is proper for saints (5:3). The culture of Ephesus embraced all forms of immorality. But Paul told the church not to let the culture set the standard for them. As saints or “holy ones,” they were to be set apart for God. Obscene and foolish talk or crude joking didn’t belong on their lips (5:4).

Believers ought not to laugh over things that should make us cry. You can’t adopt a non-Christian lifestyle and expect an inheritance in the kingdom (i.e., rewards given to faithful believers) (5:5). We must not be deceived. Because of these things, God’s wrath is coming, so we must not be partners with unbelievers (5:6–7). Don’t let their lifestyles be your own. God wants us to see sin the way he sees it.

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1228–1229.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

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Disclaimer
When God inspires me, I write or post articles that glorify God. I invite you to view this post as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, I encourage you to search the Scriptures to determine whether what I have posted is true. Always consult your church ministers regarding biblical matters. I am not a professional writer, so there may be grammatical or spelling errors. I strive to write as clearly and efficiently as possible. My prayer is that this message will inspire you to seek the Lord with all your heart and bring glory to His Holy name. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo.