Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Imitation, in a biblical context, refers to the act of emulating or following the example of another, particularly in moral and spiritual matters. The concept of imitation is significant in Christian theology as it pertains to the believer's call to emulate the character and actions of Jesus Christ and other godly figures. This imitation is not merely external but involves a transformation of the heart and mind to align with the will of God. Biblical Basis The New Testament frequently exhorts believers to imitate Christ and other faithful leaders. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, the Apostle Paul urges, "Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ" . This verse highlights the chain of imitation, where believers are encouraged to follow the example of those who themselves are following Christ. Ephesians 5:1-2 further emphasizes this call: "Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant sacrificial offering to God" . Here, imitation is directly linked to living a life of love and sacrifice, mirroring the selfless love of Christ. Imitation of Christ The imitation of Christ is central to Christian discipleship. Philippians 2:5-8 provides a profound example of Christ's humility and obedience: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross" . Believers are called to adopt the mindset of Christ, characterized by humility, service, and obedience. Imitation of Faithful Leaders In addition to Christ, Scripture encourages the imitation of faithful leaders. Hebrews 13:7 instructs, "Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith" . This verse underscores the importance of observing and emulating the faith and conduct of those who have faithfully followed God. Imitation and Transformation Imitation in the Christian life is closely tied to transformation. Romans 12:2 exhorts believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God" . This transformation is facilitated by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to imitate Christ and live according to God's will. Practical Implications The call to imitation has practical implications for daily living. It involves a conscious effort to reflect Christ's character in one's actions, decisions, and relationships. Colossians 3:12-14 provides guidance on the virtues to cultivate: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity" . Conclusion While imitation is a lifelong journey, it is a vital aspect of spiritual growth and maturity. By striving to imitate Christ and godly leaders, believers are equipped to live lives that honor God and reflect His love to the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of copying.2. (n.) That which is made or produced as a copy; that which is made to resemble something else, whether for laudable or for fraudulent purposes; likeness; resemblance. 3. (n.) One of the principal means of securing unity and consistency in polyphonic composition; the repetition of essentially the same melodic theme, phrase, or motive, on different degrees of pitch, by one or more of the other parts of voices. Cf. Canon. 4. (n.) The act of condition of imitating another species of animal, or a plant, or inanimate object. See Imitate, v. t., 3. Greek 5455. phoneo -- to call out ... From phone; to emit a sound (animal, human or instrumental); by implication, to address in words or by name, also in imitation -- call (for), crow, cry. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5455.htm - 7k 3402. mimetes -- an imitator 5262. hupodeigma -- a figure, copy, example 5179. tupos -- typically 5261. hupogrammos -- a writing to be copied, an example 5296. hupotuposis -- an outline, sketch, fig. an example 4807. sukaminos -- the mulberry tree, the sycamine Strong's Hebrew 7975. Shiloach -- a reservoir in Jer.... Shiloah, Siloah Or (in imitation of Shelach) Shelach (Neh. 3:15) {sheh'-lakh}; from shalach; rill; Shiloach, a fountain of Jerusalem -- Shiloah, Siloah. ... /hebrew/7975.htm - 5k Library Imitation of Christ The Imitation of Christ Of the Imitation of Christ, and of Contempt of the World and all ... Imitation of an Earthquake. Its Imitation by Demons. And Since, in Imitation of a Rhetorician Training a Pupil... Virgins are Called to the Imitation of the Church in the ... Imitation of Christ's Kindness. Pelagius, in Imitation of Cyprian, Wrote a Book of Testimonies. Thoughts Upon the Imitation of Christ. Thesaurus Imitation (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Imitation (3 Occurrences). ... For God said, "See that you make everything in imitation of the pattern shown you on the mountain." (WEY). ... /i/imitation.htm - 8k Imagery (5 Occurrences) Imitator (1 Occurrence) Model (9 Occurrences) Partridge (2 Occurrences) Canon Copy (18 Occurrences) Counterfeit (3 Occurrences) Instructed (80 Occurrences) Jesus (10891 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about plagiarism? | GotQuestions.orgIs mimetic theory biblical? | GotQuestions.org Is it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.org Imitation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Imitation (3 Occurrences)Acts 7:44 Hebrews 8:5 1 Peter 1:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |