Rooted: Real or Fake?

Our faith is rooted in doing everything we can to be like Jesus. This simple truth forms the foundation of our Christian walk. As believers, we're called to imitate Christ in every aspect of our lives - our thoughts, words, and actions must align with His example. In Ephesians 5:1-6, Paul provides clear guidance on what this imitation looks like and warns against behaviors that pull us away from Christ's example.

What Does It Mean to Imitate God?

Paul begins with a powerful command: "Therefore be imitators of God as dearly loved children" (Ephesians 5:1). The word "imitate" comes from the Greek word "mimiomai," which means to mimic or copy. Unlike how we sometimes view imitations as inferior copies, Paul is calling us to follow the absolute best example in the universe. Just as children naturally imitate their parents, we as spiritual children should naturally imitate our Heavenly Father. This isn't just about following rules - it's about becoming more like Him in character and action. 

How do we imitate God? Paul tells us to "walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us" (Ephesians 5:2). This walking isn't a one-time event but a continuous journey. When we stop walking in love, we stop imitating Jesus. This love is sacrificial - it gives of itself at personal cost for the good of others and the glory of God. Jesus demonstrated this perfectly through His sacrifice on the cross, becoming "a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God." When we live sacrificially, our lives become a pleasing aroma to God.

What Behaviors Are Incompatible with Imitating Christ?

Paul doesn't shy away from naming specific behaviors that have no place in a believer's life:

"But sexual immorality and any impurity or greed should not even be heard of among you, as is proper for saints. Obscene and foolish talking or crude joking are not suitable, but rather giving thanks" (Ephesians 5:3-4).

These behaviors represent self-indulgence rather than self-sacrifice. They're about seeking personal gratification at someone else's expense - the opposite of Christ's example. Paul specifically addresses sexual immorality (porneia in Greek) because it was rampant in Ephesus, just as it is in our culture today. The city of Ephesus was home to the temple of Diana, a fertility goddess, making it a center for sexual immorality and greed.

Why Is Sexual Sin So Dangerous for Believers?

Sexual sin is fundamentally a worship problem. When we engage in sexual immorality, we're essentially worshiping our desires and pleasures rather than God. That's why Paul calls such a person an "idolater" who "does not have an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God" (Ephesians 5:5). This doesn't mean believers lose their salvation through sin, but rather that those who persistently live in unrepentant sin demonstrate that they may not truly be followers of Christ. As John Stott notes, "assurance of salvation is neither a synonym nor an excuse for presumption." The good news is that in Christ, we are new creations. Who we have been is not who we are, and who we are is not who we will be. Jesus didn't come to free us from just one sin or another - He came to deal with all of it.

For those struggling with sexual sin or pornography, there are practical steps to take:

  • Install accountability software on your devices
  • Find trusted accountability partners
  • Remember that God's grace is sufficient
  • Focus on thanksgiving rather than self-gratification

The key is to actively work to eliminate sin, not just manage it. There is no "acceptable amount" of sin in a believer's life.

How Should Our Past Motivate Our Present?

"Who we have been is what ought to spur our hearts to action." Understanding our own sinful past should motivate us to reach others who are still trapped in sin. We know the destructive power of sin firsthand, and we've experienced the transformative power of Christ's grace. This isn't about feeling superior to others but about being moved with compassion because "such were we." Our testimony of transformation becomes a powerful witness to others.

Life Application

This week, take time to examine your heart honestly. Ask yourself:

  1. What sin so easily entangles me that I need Christ's power to be free from?
  2. Am I truly imitating Jesus in my thoughts, words, and actions?
  3. What am I truly worshiping - Jesus or something else?
  4. How can my testimony of transformation help others who are struggling?

The call to imitate Christ isn't easy, but it's the path to true freedom and joy. Be about the business of "killing your sin so that it's not killing you." Remember that in Christ, you have the power to be a "super conqueror" - not because of your own strength, but because of His power working in you.

May the change Christ works in you change your world, starting today, right here, right now.


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