MEETING 3: EVERY WAY

WORKOUT

SETTING THE STANDARD

It didn’t take long after Paul’s conversion to the Christian faith that he was traveling to ancient cities found in countries now known as Israel, Syria, Turkey, Greece, and Italy, sharing the Gospel of Christ and helping build churches.

Along with other church leaders like Peter and James, he set the standard for rapidly growing the Church. The believers hung on every sermon the apostles preached and every letter they wrote, but Paul was quick to remind his disciples that the goal wasn’t to become more like him but to become more like Christ.

“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” — Ephesians 5:1–2

That was Paul’s rallying cry for the Church. He wanted the believers to fully understand who Jesus was and the great things He wanted to accomplish through them. As they knew Jesus more, they would want to become more like Him.

“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.” — Ephesians 3:16–17

Paul knew the believers needed to be rooted in God’s Word and intimately connected to Him through prayer. He also emphasized followers of Christ have a higher calling, which requires living by a higher standard and following the Holy Spirit daily.

“Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” — Ephesians 4:24

We have God’s Word. We have His Spirit. We have His Church. All of those things empower us to be more like Jesus Christ in every way.

Q: What do you think it looks like to become more like Jesus?

Q: Which of the things discussed do you need to apply to your life more consistently? How might those things help you become more like Jesus?

• Prayer
• God’s Word
• Church Fellowship

THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST

So what does it look like to imitate God or follow the example of Jesus? The Bible does give us an idea of some attributes that are high on that list:

• We should be selfless and humble.

“The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” — Matthew 23:11–12

• We should be holy and separate from the world.

“But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” — 1 Peter 2:9

• We should promote unity and peace within the body of Christ.

“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” — Philippians 2:3

• We should love others.

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” — John 13:34–35

• We should forgive others.

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32

• We should boldly share the Gospel.

“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.” — Ephesians 4:15

We struggle with every day because we are human and by no means perfect. But here’s the good news. God is not finished with you. He’s just beginning, and He won’t give up on you without a fight.

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” — Philippians 1:6

Q: For you, is it easy or difficult to become more like Christ in every way?

Q: Of the attributes listed, which ones do you struggle with the most and why? How do you think doing those things more consistently might change you and those around you?