IMITATING CHRIST
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Corinthians 11:1
"Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
Supporting Texts: Ephesians 5:1-2, Philippians 2:5-8, 1 Peter 2:21, Romans 8:29, 1 John 2:6
INTRODUCTION
The highest calling of every believer is to imitate Christ. The Christian life is not just about believing in Jesus but becoming like Him in character, attitude, and actions. Imitating Christ means walking in love, humility, holiness, and obedience to God, just as Jesus did.
As disciples of Christ, we are called to reflect His nature in our daily lives. The more we align our thoughts, words, and actions with Jesus, the more we fulfil our divine purpose and become effective witnesses of His Kingdom.
1. IMITATING CHRIST IN LOVE
Love is the defining characteristic of Jesus’ life and ministry.
a) Christ’s Love is Selfless
Jesus demonstrated love by sacrificing Himself for others (John 15:13).
b) We are Commanded to Walk in Love
Believers are to love as Christ loved (Ephesians 5:1-2).
c) Love is the Greatest Virtue
Without love, all spiritual gifts are meaningless (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).
d) Love Covers a Multitude of Sins
True love forgives and restores (1 Peter 4:8).
e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan
Jesus taught that true love transcends boundaries (Luke 10:25-37).
2. IMITATING CHRIST IN HUMILITY
Jesus humbled Himself, though He was God.
a) Christ’s Humility was Evident in His Incarnation
He took on human form to serve mankind (Philippians 2:5-8).
b) A Humble Heart Attracts God’s Grace
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
c) Humility is the Path to Greatness
Jesus taught that the greatest must be the servant of all (Mark 10:43-45).
d) True Humility is Found in Dependence on God
Jesus constantly sought the Father’s will (John 5:30).
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Washing the Disciples' Feet
He taught servanthood by His example (John 13:12-15).
3. IMITATING CHRIST IN HOLINESS
Holiness is a key attribute of Christ that we must reflect.
a) Christ was Without Sin
Though tempted, He remained sinless (Hebrews 4:15).
b) God Calls Us to be Holy
We must pursue holiness in all areas of life (1 Peter 1:15-16).
c) Holiness is a Requirement for Seeing God
Without holiness, no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).
d) A Holy Life Reflects God’s Nature
We are called to be set apart from the world (Romans 12:2).
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Purity in Babylon
Daniel refused to defile himself (Daniel 1:8).
4. IMITATING CHRIST IN OBEDIENCE
Jesus lived a life of complete obedience to the Father.
a) Obedience was the Mark of Jesus’ Ministry
He only did what He saw the Father do (John 5:19).
b) Obedience to God Leads to Divine Exaltation
Because Jesus obeyed, God highly exalted Him (Philippians 2:9-11).
c) We Show Our Love for God Through Obedience
Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).
d) Disobedience Hinders God’s Blessings
Rebellion separates us from God’s best (1 Samuel 15:22-23).
e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Obedience
He obeyed God’s call without hesitation (Genesis 12:1-4).
5. IMITATING CHRIST IN FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD
Jesus completely relied on the Father in everything.
a) Jesus Lived by Faith in the Father
He trusted God even in difficult times (Matthew 26:39).
b) Faith is the Key to Pleasing God
Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).
c) We Must Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Believers are called to live by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7).
d) Faith Brings Victory Over Challenges
Jesus encouraged faith in His disciples (Mark 11:22-24).
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Calming the Storm
He demonstrated faith in God’s power (Mark 4:37-39).
CONCLUSION
To imitate Christ is to live as He lived—walking in love, humility, holiness, obedience, and faith. As we strive to be more like Jesus, we become true ambassadors of His Kingdom, bringing light to the world and glorifying God in all we do.
The Holy Spirit helps us in this journey, transforming us into Christ’s image day by day. Let us yield to Him and commit to living as true disciples of Jesus Christ.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help me to love others as Christ loved.
2. Father, give me the grace to walk in humility and servanthood.
3. Lord, purify my heart and help me to live a holy life.
4. Father, strengthen me to obey Your will in all things.
5. Lord, increase my faith and trust in You.
6. Father, let my life reflect the character of Christ.
7. Holy Spirit, transform me daily into the image of Jesus.
8. Lord, help me to be a true ambassador of Christ in my generation.
9. Father, deliver me from anything that hinders my imitation of Christ.
10. Lord, let my life bring glory to Your name.
