Imitators of God

Eph. 5:1-2

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

 

After concluding his teaching on the 'put off /put on', he emphatically states, Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. The logical conclusion, in light of all the believer has put off and put one, would be to imitate God since He is the source of faith and grace and the One who can make such a life a reality. Since Christ indwells us, we must walk in the same love that He gave us when He sacrificed Himself for our salvation. 

 

Following this, Paul draws more contrasts. First he says that no sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness, filthiness, foolish talk, or crude talking must be evidenced but instead thanksgiving. These behaviors should not even be named among saints since they are entirely out of place. But why thanksgiving? Perhaps it is because a thankful heart is a contented heart, a heart not seeking fulfillment in evil things, but a heart resting totally in what God has provided. Paul warns believers that those who participate in immorality, impurity, and covetousness have no place in the kingdom of God. Why would a believer want to do things that were totally abhorrent to God and to the indwelling Christ? If he did, is he truly a believer at all?

 

As children of the light no longer of the darkness, believers must walk in this light, for the fruit of light is found in all that is good, right, and true. The constant light in the believer's life is Jesus. As believers try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord, Paul takes much of the mystery out of it by continuing to teach this life-style. Take no part in the works of darkness, but instead expose them. This is an extension of the believer's commitment. Not only does the believer resist the darkness and refuse to participate, but now he must expose these works. Definitely not the road to popularity!

 

Look carefully, walk in wisdom not in darkness but in light. Make the best use of time because the days are evil. Don't waste the time that God has given us by participating on empty activities, but be involved in the work of the Lord and in understanding His will. Don't be drunk with wine which is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit. This spirit-filled life is one of speaking psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making heart-felt melodies to the Lord. Give thanks always for everything. And to sum up all this teaching, Paul states,  And submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This walk in the light, in His love, and in the Spirit is all encompassing. If I were to live like this, I would have no time left for foolish, worldly activities. When Satan tempts, all I would have to say is, No Time! No times for darkness, but full-time for the Light! What a life I have been called to live! What a Savior who indwells me and fills me with His grace! What a Spirit who indwells me directing my every step!

 

Father,

Teach me more each day how to apply all these commands. Make my walk and my life be honoring to You. This is my desire!

In Jesus name,
Amen