December 11, 2021 — Ephesians 5:1–20  

“Therefore, be imitators of God as dearly loved children and live in love, just as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. But among you there must not be either sexual immorality, impurity of any kind, or greed, as these are not fitting for the saints. Neither should there be vulgar speech, foolish talk, or coarse jesting – all of which are out of character – but rather thanksgiving. For you can be confident of this one thing: that no person who is immoral, impure, or greedy (such a person is an idolater) has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let nobody deceive you with empty words, for because of these things Godʼs wrath comes on the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them, for you were at one time darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of the light – for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth – trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For the things they do in secret are shameful even to mention. But all things being exposed by the light are made evident.” Ephesians 5:1–13  

“Be imitators….of Jesus”. Imitators (the Greek word is “mimetes”) is translated as an imitator, follower, actor, or impostor. Mimetes means “do as I do.” Plato said a mimetes was one who represents characters. Aristotle said it was one who is like another. A mime is one who acts a part with mimic gestures and action. The verb “to be” is in the present imperative…meaning Jesus is commanding for continual, ongoing action — and imitation – to imitate Jesus. Now think about this for a second—how successful might we be if we try to keep this command, being imitators of Jesus, but act solely in our OWN strength? My feeling is we will fail without Christ.  

The only way to imitate the life of Jesus is by relying on the same power Jesus relied upon—the power of the Holy Spirit. Note that just after Jesus’ ministry was inaugurated through His baptism and the giving of the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit filled Jesus and led Him into the wilderness and then “…all Hell broke lose”. The only way we can obey this command, to be imitators of Christ, is through the power of the Holy Spirit.  

Let us pray,

Lord Jesus, we want to imitate you – but we are not perfect. Help us to follow your commands, to love all, to forgive without limits, and to allow you, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to be our sure guide for daily living. Amen.

Pastor Dave