Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Imitating, in a biblical context, refers to the act of following or emulating the behavior, character, and actions of another, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense. The concept of imitation is significant in Christian theology, where believers are encouraged to imitate God, Christ, and the apostles as a means of spiritual growth and moral development. Biblical Foundation The Bible provides numerous exhortations for believers to imitate God and Christ. In Ephesians 5:1-2, the Apostle Paul instructs, "Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant sacrificial offering to God." This passage highlights the call to emulate God's love and sacrificial nature, reflecting the character of Christ in one's life. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul urges the Corinthian church, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." Here, Paul sets himself as an example insofar as he follows Christ, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's life with the teachings and example of Jesus. Imitating Christ The imitation of Christ is central to Christian discipleship. Jesus' life and teachings provide a model for believers to follow. Philippians 2:5-8 encourages believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, who, though being in the form of God, humbled Himself and became obedient to death on a cross. This passage underscores the virtues of humility, obedience, and self-sacrifice as key aspects of imitating Christ. Imitating God Imitating God involves embodying His attributes, such as holiness, love, and mercy. Leviticus 19:2 commands, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy." This call to holiness is reiterated in the New Testament, where believers are urged to reflect God's character in their conduct. Imitating the Apostles and Early Church Leaders The New Testament also presents the apostles and early church leaders as examples to follow. In 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7, Paul commends the Thessalonians for becoming imitators of him and the Lord, stating, "You became imitators of us and of the Lord, when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your suffering. As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia." Practical Implications Imitating God, Christ, and the apostles involves practical application in daily life. Believers are called to exhibit love, patience, kindness, and forgiveness, reflecting the character of God in their interactions with others. Colossians 3:12-14 encourages believers to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity." Challenges and Encouragement While the call to imitation is clear, believers may face challenges in living up to these ideals due to human weakness and sin. However, the Holy Spirit empowers believers to grow in Christlikeness. Romans 8:29 assures that those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, providing hope and encouragement for the transformative work of God in the believer's life. Conclusion The biblical call to imitation is a profound aspect of Christian living, urging believers to reflect the character of God and Christ in their lives. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the example of faithful leaders, believers are equipped to grow in holiness and love, fulfilling their calling as children of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Imitate.Greek 1111. gogguzo -- to mutter, murmur ... 1111 (an onomatopoetic term imitating the sound of cooing doves) -- to murmur or mutter (grumble) with muffled undertones; (figuratively) murmur, grumble; to ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1111.htm - 7k 2206. zeloo -- to be jealous 1234. diagogguzo -- to murmur among themselves 995. boe -- a cry 1811. exakoloutheo -- to follow (out, up), ie to imitate Strong's Hebrew 3932. laag -- to mock, deride, stammer... A primitive root; to deride; by implication (as if imitating a foreigner) to speak unintelligibly -- have in derision, laugh (to scorn), mock (on), stammering. ... /hebrew/3932.htm - 6k Library The First Chapter: Imitating Christ and Despising all Vanities on ... Imitating These Examples, Let us Seek after Peace. Imitating These Examples, Let us Seek after Peace. Duty of Imitating Our Master Taught us by Slaves Even by Beasts. ... Ephesians iv. 32 and v. 1, 2 You Observe How He Treats Ambrose. First, He Calls Him a Crow and ... Why the Pharisees Asked a Sign from Heaven. He Thus Proceeds to a Magnificent Discourse of the Interpretation ... The Unchangeable Christ 1 John ii. 27-iii. 8 Thesaurus Imitating (3 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Imitate. Multi-Version Concordance Imitating (3 Occurrences). Philippians 3:17 Brethren ... /i/imitating.htm - 7k Imitation (3 Occurrences) Vie (2 Occurrences) Imitated (1 Occurrence) Isaac (127 Occurrences) Enchantment (4 Occurrences) Mindful (39 Occurrences) Mocking (25 Occurrences) Mock (43 Occurrences) Bronze (146 Occurrences) Resources What is sexual immorality? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the pseudepigrapha? | GotQuestions.org What is apostasy and how can I recognize it? | GotQuestions.org Imitating: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Imitating (3 Occurrences)Philippians 3:17 2 Thessalonians 3:9 Hebrews 13:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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