Avoid Imitation

BEGIN AGAIN!
Terry R. Baughman

“Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think” (Romans 12:2 TPT).

Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but we have no cause to compliment the culture of contemporary society. Though social media and other gatherings people often dress like, sing like, act like, or emulate those they admire or desire to be like. Trends and fashions often mirror those of the trendsetters or celebrities. Social influencers seek to profit by convincing others to follow a trend or adopt certain styles so they may profit from the sales they inspire. 

It seems that many, especially teens or young adults, want to be different, yet they also carefully mimic the latest trend. The things they model betray their desire for distinction. Obviously there is a desire for acceptance and identity with those surrounding them. 

Paul advised believers in Rome to cease imitating the culture. There is no need to model the actions or attitudes of our society, especially in areas that identify us with the world and its passions. The call of the Spirit is to be separated from the world and identified with Jesus! Avoid imitation!

Christians are to be transformed by the baptism of the Spirit, changed into new creations in Christ. Paul called it “a total reformation of how you think” (Romans 12:2 TPT). He wrote, “Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJ). 


Theme passage:
“Be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think” (Romans 12:2 TPT).