InstaStudy

Walking as He Walked: Emulating the Life of Christ

This study explores the profound call in 1 John 2:6 to live as Jesus lived, examining what it means to be in Him and how His life provides the ultimate pattern for our own. We will delve into the character and actions of Jesus, understanding that His walk was a perfect demonstration of God's nature, and discover how we are empowered to follow His example today.

1. The Call to Be "In Him"

1.1 A New Relationship

Verses: 1 John 2:6; John 3:5; Acts 2:38
  • Being 'in Him' signifies a spiritual rebirth and a new covenant relationship with God.
  • This relationship is established through repentance, water baptism in Jesus' name, and receiving the Holy Spirit.
  • It's a complete identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.

1.2 Identification and Belonging

Verses: Galatians 2:20; Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 3:3
  • To be 'in Him' means our old self is crucified with Christ, and we now live through Him.
  • Our life is hidden with Christ in God, signifying a deep spiritual union.
  • This identification is the foundation for living a life that reflects Him.

2. Jesus: The Perfect Manifestation of God's Walk

2.1 His Absolute Obedience

Verses: John 8:29; John 14:10; Philippians 2:8
  • Jesus always did what pleased the Father, demonstrating perfect submission to God's will.
  • His life was a continuous act of obedience, revealing the very nature of God in human form.
  • He humbled Himself, even to the point of death on the cross, fulfilling God's redemptive plan.

2.2 His Unblemished Holiness

Verses: Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21
  • Jesus lived a life without sin, setting the standard for purity and righteousness.
  • He was tempted in every way, yet remained without sin, proving God's power over temptation.
  • His holiness is the pattern for our own pursuit of sanctification.

2.3 His Unconditional Love

Verses: John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:8; Ephesians 5:2
  • Jesus demonstrated God's love through His actions, sacrifices, and teachings.
  • He commanded His followers to love one another as He loved them.
  • His love is the ultimate expression of God's character, which we are called to emulate.

3. The Imperative to "Walk as He Walked"

3.1 Living in Obedience to God's Word

Verses: John 14:15; James 1:22; Matthew 7:24
  • Following Jesus' example means actively obeying God's commands, not just hearing them.
  • Our obedience is a demonstration of our love for God and our commitment to Him.
  • A life built on obedience is a stable and fruitful life.

3.2 Reflecting His Holiness in Daily Life

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; 2 Corinthians 7:1
  • We are called to be holy in all our conduct, just as God who called us is holy.
  • This involves separating ourselves from sin and pursuing righteousness.
  • Our lifestyle should bear witness to the transforming power of God within us.

3.3 Extending His Love to the World

Verses: 1 John 4:7; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 12:9-10
  • Walking as Jesus walked includes loving God supremely and loving our neighbor as ourselves.
  • This love is practical, active, and extends even to those who are difficult to love.
  • Our love for one another is a powerful testimony to the world that we are His disciples.

4. The Empowerment for Our Walk

4.1 The Indwelling Spirit

Verses: Acts 1:8; Romans 8:9; Galatians 5:16
  • We are not left to walk in our own strength; the Holy Spirit empowers us.
  • The Spirit of God, received at conversion, enables us to live a life pleasing to Him.
  • Walking in the Spirit means yielding to His guidance and power daily.

4.2 Transformation and Growth

Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 1:6; Romans 12:2
  • As we walk in Him, the Spirit progressively transforms us into His image.
  • God, who began a good work in us, will carry it on to completion.
  • This transformation is a continuous process of renewing our minds and conforming to His will.