Topical Encyclopedia The life and teachings of Jesus Christ serve as the ultimate example for believers, calling them to conform to His image in the pursuit of righteousness. This conformity is not merely an external imitation but a transformative process that aligns the believer's heart, mind, and actions with the character and will of Christ.Biblical Foundation The call to conform to the example of Christ is rooted in Scripture. In Romans 8:29, the Apostle Paul writes, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers." This verse underscores the divine intention for believers to reflect the character of Christ, emphasizing that conformity to Christ is part of God's redemptive plan. Imitation of Christ's Humility and Service Philippians 2:5-7 exhorts believers to adopt the mindset of Christ: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." Christ's humility and willingness to serve are central to His example, calling believers to prioritize others above themselves and to serve selflessly. Love and Forgiveness Christ's example of love and forgiveness is paramount. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." The sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ, culminating in His death on the cross, sets the standard for believers to love others unconditionally and to forgive as they have been forgiven (Ephesians 4:32). Holiness and Obedience Christ's life was marked by perfect obedience to the Father and a commitment to holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls believers to emulate this holiness: "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness involves a rejection of sin and a dedication to living according to God's commandments, as Christ did. Suffering and Perseverance Believers are also called to follow Christ's example in suffering. 1 Peter 2:21 states, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps." Christ's endurance through suffering and His unwavering faithfulness to God's will provide a model for believers to persevere through trials, trusting in God's purpose and strength. Dependence on the Father Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated complete dependence on the Father, often retreating to pray and seek guidance. In John 5:19, Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself, unless He sees the Father doing it. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does." This dependence is a model for believers to rely on God's wisdom and strength in all aspects of life. Conclusion The example of Christ is comprehensive, encompassing humility, love, holiness, perseverance, and dependence on God. Conformity to His example is not optional but required for those who seek to live righteously. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are enabled to grow in Christlikeness, fulfilling their calling to reflect His character in the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 2:6He that said he stays in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Its Basis The Prayer of Prayers How Christ is to be Made Use Of, as the Way, for Sanctification in ... The Priesthood of Christ The Law Given, not to Retain a People for Itself, but to Keep ... Calvin -- Enduring Persecution for Christ The Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff. Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2. Subject Index Division of Actual Grace Resources What is Christian leadership? | GotQuestions.orgAre apparitions of Mary, such as Lady Fatima, true messages from God? | GotQuestions.org What are the various theories on the atonement? | GotQuestions.org Example: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Example: Bad, Admonitions Against The Example of Christ is Perfect The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Progressive The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Being Guileless The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Being not of the World The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Benevolence The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Forgiving Injuries The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Holiness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Humility The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Love The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Meekness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Ministering to Others The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Obedience The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Overcoming the World The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Purity The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Righteousness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Self-Denial The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Suffering for Righteousness The Example of Christ: Conformity To, Required in Suffering Wrongfully The Example of Christ: Saints Predestinated to Follow Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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