Paul makes a strong statement to begin chapter 5: “be imitators of God as dear children.” It is interesting that he calls believers to imitate God and furthermore refers to them as children. Kids are a reflection of their parents, whether good or bad. Children pick up words, actions, reactions, and habits from what they observe in the lives of their parents. In the same manner, Paul commands that any Christ follower imitate what they see in God. Because God is our heavenly Father, we should reflect His character. Paul mentions the supreme characteristic a believer can imitate…walking in love. Jesus Christ set the example of love by giving “Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” In the gospels Jesus said that the two great commandments are loving God and loving others. I believe that when we love God, love for others will closely follow. It is impossible to love others without loving God. Walking in love is a must for a genuine follower of Christ, but there are many things which must not characterize the lifestyle of a Christian. In verse 3 Paul lists sins such as fornication (any sexual sin) and covetousness declaring that these things should “not be names among you, as is fitting for saints.” Verse 4 continues a list of sins which should not be a part of a Christian’s life. A stern warning is given in verse 5 when Paul states that “no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” Again, Christians can commit these sins, but their life should never be characterized by them. A person whose lifestyle is continually wicked and sinful cannot claim kinship with Christ. Sin brings God’s judgment on the sinner; therefore, a person who is characterized by sin must never be convinced that he has any part in God’s family unless he repents (5:6). In verse 8 Paul warns his readers to not partake with those whose lifestyle is not imitating the character of God. The advice is clear – walk in love and stay far from sin!
Dear God, may I imitate only You!
