Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children."
Text: Ephesians 5:1
THE IDEA BEHIND THE WORD “IMITATING”
The word “imitator” does not have great connotations today. What did Paul have in mind when he used the word “imitators” (“mimetai”)?
1. The lexical idea of “imitation” (“mimetai)
a) The idea is that of following closely a good example.
b) The word “mimic” finds its roots in this Greek word.
2. The application of the word
a) Children learn much from their parents
Children learn so much from their parents. They could pick up the following things from their parents. Among other things, the following may be highlighted:-
i) Values
ii) Behaviour
iii) Inclinations
iv) Thought and speech patterns
b) Children learn through mimicking
Children learn much through mimicking their parents:-
i) Subconscious mimicking
ii) Conscious mimicking
Either way, children will pick up the ways of their parents! The lessons they have learned will be evidenced in their life.
c) Closeness of relationship
Mimicry is best learned through a very close relationship established between children and parents:-
i) This relationship must be forged.
ii) It must be carefully nourished and maintained.
NO NEGATIVE CONNOTATIONS AT ALL
Sometimes the word “imitation” conjures up the following ideas:-
1. Something cheap
2. Something false
There is absolutely no negative connotation at all in Paul’s use of the phrase, “imitators of God”.