Imitators Not Pretenders Series

Imitators not Pretenders

1 Thessalonians 2: 10-13

As I studied this passage I was reminded of the need for sincerity and genuineness among the church. We live in a day plagued with hypocrisy. One of the most offered arguments against attending church in our generation is the presence of hypocrites within the church. Many on the outside believe no one is real or sincere in the church. Our younger generation especially is looking for something real.

It appears Paul also dealt with this tragic issue as well. These verses are an exhortation to live a godly life before men. He wanted them to stand firm in their faith, follow the Lord, and provide a good example for others who had not yet come to Christ.

The lack of sincerity and genuineness has been a problem as long as men have lived upon the earth. Christ dealt with hypocrisy as He ministered upon the earth. Many times, our Lord confronted their hypocrisy. A hypocrite was viewed as one who was “an actor, a stage player, one who hid behind a mask, or a pretender.” We, as believers of the Lord Jesus, have not been called to a life of hypocrisy. We have not been called to be pretenders, but rather imitators of our Lord, revealing our faith in Him. 1 Pet.2:21 – For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 1 John 2:6 – He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. (1 Thes.1:6 – followers)

Let’s consider the challenges Paul presents as we think on: Imitators not Pretenders.

I. The Example Displayed (10) – Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe. Paul declared they were all witnesses to his behavior among them. Paul didn’t hold to the philosophy of “do as I say; not as I do.” He faithfully modeled Christian behavior before them. He lived:

A. A Life of Holiness – Paul lived a pious and holy life before men. This was not something he developed while at Thessalonica; it was a way of life for him. Each day Paul lived, he sought to live holy before God. He lived a separated life from the world, and a life totally set apart to God. His life was not dictated by the pleasures of sin; he sought to walk with God each day.

You would have to agree that we are in need of those who will live holy before the Lord. Holiness cannot be pretended. We either live for God or we don’t. Many see folks who claim to love the Lord on Sunday, but their lives don’t reflect that love throughout the week. We need to be separated, set apart unto the Lord.

B. A Life of Righteousness – He also lived justly. That literally means “righteously, properly, upright;” dealing righteously with both God and man. Paul was just and right in all his dealings. He always treated men fairly and compassionately. He sought to treat them as he wanted to be treated, and as God would treat them. He saw them as God saw them.

We could certainly learn a lesson in that regard. We are quick to pass judgment and condemn. We only see the faults in people. We need to see them as God sees them, a soul in need of salvation!

C. A Life of Blamelessness – Paul also sought to live unblameably. He desired to live “blameless, without cause for censure, above reproach.” Phil.1:10 – That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. Sincere has the idea of “judged by sunlight; without wax.” Phil.2:15 – That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. We often think of these characteristics concerning deacons and pastors, but in reality, all Christians have an obligation of living blameless before men. We are to live in such a way that even if charges are brought against us, they will have no chance of “sticking.”

II. The Exhortation Declared (11-12) – After reminding them of his example before them, Paul exhorted them to follow his example. They were to imitate the life he lived and the life of Christ. We need imitators not pretenders! Consider Paul’s exhortation. First, we see:

A. The Call (11) – As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children. He exhorted them. This means to “call to one’s side, appeal to, or summons.” He knew of their difficulties and the burdens they carried. He sought to exhort them, encourage them, and even instruct them. He didn’t want them to wander aimlessly, seeking to serve the Lord. He wanted to equip them for service.