Matthew 10:24-25
Introduction:
1. Any successful endeavor demands clearly defined objectives.
2. This series intends to reinforce Christlikeness as the core objective of Christianity, clearly define key elements of His character, and urge the imitation of the same.
Discussion:
I. What’s in a Name?
A. The name “Christian” only occurs 3x in the Bible (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16).
B. Yet, it has been the primary designation of the disciples of Jesus from early times.
C. The suffix -ian indicates one who is “of, relating to, belonging to, skilled in or specializing in, characteristic of, resembling” the root word (Merriam-Webster).
II. Conforming to His Image
A. C.S. Lewis described the name as indicating a “little Christ.” (Mere Christianity).
B. This concept fits well with the New Testament calls to be molded in His image.
1. God called us to be conformed to Christ’s image (Romans 8:29).
2. We are to be like our Teacher and Master (Matthew 10:24-25) and imitate His ways day-by-day (John 13:13-17; 1 Corinthians 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; Ephesians 5:2).
III. Discovering His Image
A. Conforming to His image and imitating His ways demands we discover them.
B. Thankfully, He revealed these in Scripture (John 1:18; 16:12-15; 1 Corinthians 2:6-16).
1. Seeing His glorious image is transforming us into the same (2 Corinthians 3:18).
2. As we grow in knowledge of Him, we grow up into Him (Ephesians 4:15).
3. This demands more than knowing about Him, it demands that we take on His mind/thoughts (Philippians 2:5ff; Colossians 3:9-10).
Conclusion:
1. This is the aim of this series (indeed the whole Christian endeavor).
2. As we progress, we will see that Christlikeness is not merely about external behaviors, it is about the true nature of our hearts.
3. This process will be painful to all who honestly compare themselves to the Christ, but that pain will pay off with the peaceable fruit of righteousness (Hebrews 12:11).
Further Food for Thought:
1. Do you suppose this ties back to God’s original intent for humanity? (Genesis 1:26-28)
2. How does Ephesians 5:1 factor into your thoughts on the previous question?
3. How does John 1:18 impact your view of the need to know Jesus better?