Ephesians 5:1 Be you therefore followers of God, as dear children; I. WE ARE REQUIRED TO IMITATE GOD. 1. We were originally created in the Divine image and likeness; and it is God's design to restore us to it. 2. Several things must precede this. (1) We must be convinced of sin. (2) We must be pardoned and purified. (3) We must have the spirit of adoption bestowed upon us. 3. There are some great and important points in which we never shall resemble God — in which it would be impiety even to attempt it. (1) We shall never resemble Him in form. (2) Nor in His independence. (3) Nor in His majesty and greatness. 4. Still there are several points in which we may, and must, resemble God. (1) In knowledge. The Lord is a God of knowledge; and His people are to be a wise and understanding people. It is the will and pleasure of God that we should examine, investigate, and explore; and the more we know of truth and wisdom the nearer do we approximate to His own infinite intellect and understanding. (2) In purity of heart. (3) In love of truth. (4) In justice and rectitude of mind. (5) In mercy, beneficence, long suffering. (6) In tranquillity. (7) In love. (8) In holiness. II. THE MANNER IN WHICH THIS IS TO BE ACCOMPLISHED. 1. There is God's part in this matter. He must give us grace; and He has promised to do so. 2. Our part. (1) We must contend with the evil passions and principles of our corrupt nature. (2) We must aim at this imitation. (3) We must look at our Model — the Lord Jesus Christ. (4) We must use the appointed means of grace. (James Stratten.) Parallel Verses KJV: Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; |
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