One of the most common ways people relate to Jesus is by seeing him as an example to follow. This idea is captured in the popular modern phrase “What would Jesus do?” or in the acronym WWJD. Even many non-Christians recognize Jesus as a positive moral example. While it’s not the primary way we should relate to Jesus—relating to him as creator, sustainer, and redeemer is—following his example is thoroughly biblical.
However, I recently had a discussion with some who said something like this: “I’m a follower of Jesus. If Jesus obeyed the law, then so will I.” While it sounds biblical on the surface, it’s misguided. In this post, I’d like to briefly survey what the Bible teaches about being like Jesus and then offer some cautions against an overly simplistic approach to trying to be like Jesus, where we try to follow him in ways we were never meant to. Those who reason this way have the best of intentions, but rather than honor Jesus they may dishonor him.
The Call to Be Like Jesus
The Bible is full of explicit and implicit, direct and indirect, calls to be like Jesus.
Be Like Jesus
Jesus and the apostles call Christians to be like Jesus in his selflessness, humility, service, love for others, purity, and willingness to suffer.
Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
John 13:14–17
[Read more…] about 5 Ways You Shouldn’t Try to Be Like Jesus“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34–35