God intends for us to be conformed to the image of Christ (Rom.8:29). It takes more than outward conformity of simply following His example. The change into His likeness begins on the inside, which then manifests itself outwardly in all we do. That requires power outside of ourselves. Only as we walk in the Spirit will we truly emulate Jesus from the inside out (Gal.5:13-26). Christlikeness will then affect all we do.
Conformity to Christ Affects Our Relationship with God
We read of Jesus praying to the Father. His example so impacted His disciples that they asked Him to teach them how to pray (Lk. 11:1-4). From Him we learn that teaching prayer by example requires … (Click on links to read posts.)
If Jesus found prayer to be vital to His relationship with the Father, certainly those who are conformed to the image of Christ should find praying vital to their walk with God.
Christlikeness Affects Our Relationships with Others
Scripture specifically exhorts us, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5). It goes on to describe an attitude of humility and servanthood. Read: Jesus’ Example of Servanthood
When conformed to the image of Christ, it spills over into how we speak and react. Click on the following links to read more:
- Christ-like Communication (follow links on that page for more articles)
- Attitude Toward Those Who Do Us Wrong
Being Conformed to the Image of Christ Affects How We Do Ministry
All we do, “whether in word or deed”, is to be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col. 3:17). That means we pull on His power and authority as we align with Him in the way we serve. Take time to read: Ministry Methodology All in the Name of the Lord
Alignment with Him provides a broad covering for how we do ministry. We can also learn how to do specific ministries from His example. Consider teaching: Jesus, the Master Teacher, shows us how to teach others. Read the following posts to learn ways to conform your teaching with His:
- 3 Important Lessons for Bible Teachers from the Master Teacher
- 3 More Important Lessons for Bible Teachers from the Master Teacher
- Jesus, a Master Teacher in Using Object Lessons
- Jesus, the Master Teacher, Used Questions
When conformed to the image of Christ, we’ll also be concerned with helping others in their ministries. Jesus actively discipled and equipped people in His earthly ministry.
- Let’s rely on and yield to the Holy Spirit to make us more like Christ in all we do!