"Watch Out for Imitations"

“Watch Out for Imitations”

Years ago a friend told me of a fellow pastor who went to a training conference led by a man who believed his style of leadership would work in any church situation and encouraged attendees to put his methods into practice in their ministries. The pastor bought into this approach and once at home began imitating the instructor. Not long afterwards his church leaders told him in no uncertain terms to stop trying to be someone else or someone else would soon be their pastor! This shows that while we can certainly learn from the words and examples of others we must be careful about trying to be a clone of someone else.

Early in his pastoral ministry Bible teacher Dr. J. Vernon McGee was told by a trusted friend, “We would rather have a genuine Vernon McGee than an imitation anyone else.” And my Professor of Preaching at seminary, Dr. Ray McLaughlin, emphasized developing our own pulpit style rather than trying to copy another’s. All of us can profit from watching and listening to faithful mentors who’ve influenced us, but these godly people would likely call attention to Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 11:1: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (Emphasis added).

Each of us is created in the image of God (‘…we…have been made in God’s likeness.”—James 3:9) in unique fashion (“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”—Psalm 139:14). In its comment on the latter verse the Life Application Study Bible observes, “We should have as much respect for ourselves as our Maker has for us.” God has made all of us as He saw fit and wants to use us in the special ways He’s equipped us. So to try to do otherwise shows disrespect for our Creator.

Thirteen times in the gospels we read that Jesus said, “Follow me.” Apparently His disciples took this command seriously because the religious leaders “…took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13). As he concludes his practical exposition of First John Dr. Warren Wiersbe writes, “Watch out for the imitation and the artificial and BE REAL!” (the book’s title—emphasis in the original). How can we do any less?

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan