August 13, 2013 Imitate You?

Philippians 3:17-19 Imitate You? 17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. PERHAPS you’ve heard the advice to share the gospel that goes something like this: “Preach the Word often and sometimes use words.” The intent, of course, is to be real in your faith to attract people to Jesus. In the days before Jesus’ Gospel was written, the Gospel was communicated through speaking and acting as Jesus. That, to me, defines discipleship. You speak and act as Jesus does. (Of course, Jesus still speaks through the Bible and acts through the Holy Spirit.) Thus, as Paul says, “join in imitating me”, his purpose is not for people to be as he is. His desire is for the church to model his attitude, words and actions to discover that Jesus is real for them. No, he’s not perfect as Jesus was, but his life demonstrates a confidence that Jesus is Lord and Savior, who will strengthen him in all things. Paul, indeed, is a man who lived faithfully each day to speak and act as Jesus. Paul glorified Jesus to all around him. How about you? Are you worthy of imitation? Are you able to say to your family, “Join in imitating me.” as you encourage them to speak and act as Jesus? Yes, I know you’re not perfect, but are you real about your faith to show people a real Jesus? A Moment’s Thought: People will know when Jesus is really your Lord.