Imitators of God

"Therefore be imitators of God ("followers of God" in KJV), as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." (Ephesians 5:1-2 RSV)

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children"

To seek to "imitate" God is well in keeping for those who were made in God's image ("imitate" and "image" have the same meaning when used in the same way) i.e. "So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them" (Genesis 1:27 RSV). How can mere humans "imitate" God? By behaving in a "Godly" way according to God's Commandments that sum up how to identify the only true God and how to truly obey Him (see The Decalogue).

"But fornication and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is fitting among saints. Let there be no filthiness, nor silly talk, nor levity, which are not fitting; but instead let there be thanksgiving.

Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure man, or one who is covetous, that is, an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for it is because of these things that the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not associate with them" (Ephesians 5:3-7 RSV)

Anyone who repents can become an "imitator" of God.

"For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light, for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true, and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things that they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light." (Ephesians 5:8-14 RSV)

"Look carefully then how you walk" is both an encouragement and a warning.

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father. Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ." (Ephesians 5:15-21 RSV)

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