What can I do to become more like Christ?

The Bible offers five main ways to become more like Christ. First, we ask God to help us become more like Christ. Jesus told His followers, "If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it" (John 14:14). [For more on what it means to pray in Jesus' name—according to His character and will—see this article]. God will certainly honor the prayers of those who ask to become more like Christ.

Second, we can become more like Christ by studying the life of Christ. The four Gospels offer the best information about the life of Christ on earth. The rest of the New Testament offers additional information about His teachings as given by His earliest followers. The Old Testament provides much information regarding the prophecies related to Jesus Christ. Every page of the Bible provides some insight that can be related to Jesus and help us become more like Him.

Third, we can become more like Christ by applying His teachings. As James 1:22 commands, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." We ask God for the ability to be more like Christ, learn more about Christ, and then apply what we learn in serving others. In fact, Matthew 25:40 teaches, "Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me." The way we treat the "least of these" is an indication of how we treat Christ. To be more like Christ, we will treat the lowliest and most left out people with much love.

Fourth, we can become more like Christ by following the Christian example of others. Paul wrote, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1). When we find a person who lives for Christ, we can learn much about becoming more like Christ by learning from that person. While no human is perfect, a godly person can offer help through modeling Christian principles in practical ways.

Fifth, we can become more like Christ through the encouragement of other Christians. Hebrews 10:24-25 shares, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." When we encourage one another in our Christian faith, it can help us better live like Christ.

The Bible offers other encouragement for becoming more like Christ as well. For example, James 4:8 commands, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." As we seek God, we grow closer to Him and more like Christ. In addition, we become more like Jesus when we suffer for doing what is right. Philippians 3:10-11 states, "That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead." Sharing in Christ's suffering causes us to be like Him.

All Christians should desire to become more like Christ. These principles can help us to develop a closer walk with Jesus that causes us to be more like Him and better offer His hope to others.

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