Knowing Christ and becoming like Him cannot be divorced.

Knowing Christ and becoming like Him cannot be divorced.

In verse eighteen that word “reflect” (used in the NIV) can also mean to “contemplate” which means to think on something. The idea then is that as we think on Christ and look to Him with hearts that are set on Him, there will be a transformation that takes place by the power of the Holy Spirit so that one becomes like Him as well. 

The Lord's Glory

This sort of “knowing” God then goes beyond one’s intellect and into everyday living. When Jesus taught His 12 disciples in the Scripture it was not done in a classroom setting and He did not use big words that they had to look up in a dictionary, but He taught them the Word of God through both word and deed. 

The result of this teaching was that they saw Christ for Who He truly is and they were ultimately made to be “fishers of men” (Matt. 4:23).

In conclusion then, brothers and sisters, we should ask ourselves: “what place does Christ currently have in our hearts and minds?” It is easy to look spiritual in our deeds and, yet, be proud in heart and have thoughts that revolve around ourselves (even while doing “good” things). 

Furthermore, are the fruits of the life of Christ being evidenced in and through us so that we reflect Him – to the glory of His name? Many of us know many Scriptures, but one of the most passed over is the one that says, “Do not merely listen to the Word and so deceive yourselves.

 Do what it says.” (James 1:22). Therefore, let us not simply know more about the Lord, but live as disciples – that is, those who seek to walk and imitate what they hear and see in their master -- all to the praise and glory of His name!