BE YE THEREFORE IMITATORS OF GOD

Paul writing to the Church at Ephesus says, “​1 Be ye therefore followers [imitators] of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” – Ephesians 5:1-2

The above reference, speaks very important aspects of the Christian’s walk. The Amplified Bible version give us a deeper insight into what exactly Paul is pointing to – “1 Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]; 2 and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.”

There are two very significant points being made by Paul. These points are very important for us as Christians. 
One – “1 Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father];”
Please note, we are called to be IMITATORS not PRETENDERS. There is a world of difference between these two words. Also note, we are to IMITATE YAHWEH, not anyone and everyone. We are to IMITATE as do the children, their father. I know of a son, who wanted a haircut just like his father. He cried a lot to get such a haircut. The only problem is, the father is bald. For that little fellow, all of three years, his father is his super hero, and he wants to be just like his father. This is precisely what Paul is taking about. 

We have to fashion or model ourselves just like the Father God – Just, fair, impartial, loving, kind, merciful, does not compromise and does not give up. The Father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, is a true reflection of John 3:16. We are called to like the Father.

Two – “…2 and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.” We are to walk continually in love, and give ourselves up for others, just as Christ gave Himself up for us, the worthless, and useless, fallen sinners, who in reality are the enemies of God.

How are we faring my brother, sisters and friends? Imitate the Father, and love others like the Son, to the extent of loving the enemy, that we are ready to give up ourselves, including our very life. Christian walk is no easy task. Eternal life is very expensive. A price to pay. Our life, and our living, reflects our faith.