Role Model: A Guide to Imitating Christ and Living a Godly Life

The Importance of Choosing Godly Role Models

A role model is a person whose behaviour, example, or success is an incentive and goal to follow and pattern yourself after. They are someone who has been where we aspire to be and motivates us to reach that place too, or at least learn from them. Younger people may idolize and imitate professional athletes or entertainment artists.

We all look up to someone (even if subconsciously), be it a teacher, parent, friend, pastor, or public figure. This is one of the key roles of parents, “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not

Be imitators of God – Ephesians 5:1

forsake your mother’s teaching” (Prov 1:8). Such guidance, however, must be 'do as I do, not just do as I say'. Church leaders are to be role models of righteousness: “In everything set them an example by doing what is good” (Tit 2:7). Paul repeatedly said follow my

example as I follow that of Christ (1 Cor 4:16, 11:1; Phil 3:17; 1 Thes 1:5-7; 2 Thes 3:7-9). Unfortunately, there are also false teachers within the church who are negative role models, leading many away with their depraved conduct and bringing the way of truth into disrepute (Mt 24:5; 2 Pet 2:1,2).

As role models portray either positive or negative qualities, it is of utmost importance to choose godly folk so we are not led astray and compromise our beliefs and morals. The Bible says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm” (Prov 13:20). Anyone we admire and aspire to be like should be consistently trying to imitate Christ, live in harmony with others, and display the fruit of the Spirit (Rom 12:16; Gal 5:22,23). However, be aware that human role models may likely falter at some point in their lives. Others are watching us too, and will be subconsciously influenced by our lifestyle, so always endeavour to live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way, living by what the Spirit desires (Rom 8:5,12; Col 1:10).

Jesus Christ: The Perfect Role Model

Jesus is the perfect role model, and we are to “fix our eyes on Him…follow in His steps…doing as He did for us” (Jn 13:15; Heb 12:1-3; 1 Pet 2:21). Although tempted, He never sinned, conversed a lot with His Father, showed love and compassion, worked hard, and served humanity (Mt 14:23, 15:32; Mk 10:45; Lk 5:16; Jn 5:17; Heb 4:15). He requires us to deny the demands of our selfish nature, take up our cross, and follow Him (Lk 9:23). While He literally died on a cross to purchase our salvation, the cross He calls us to carry is that which will bring about the death of the old sinful carnal lifestyle and attitudes but also bring glory to God and be of benefit to others by not living unto ourselves (2 Cor 5:15; Gal 2:20; Col 3:5-10).

Reflection and Application:

  • Consider who you currently look up to—do they reflect Christ-like character, or are they driven by worldly success?
  • Ask yourself: “In what areas of my life am I being a role model for others, and how can I grow in integrity and faithfulness?”
  • Reflect on Jesus’ example of humility and service—how can you imitate His actions in your daily interactions?
  • Commit to spending time in prayer and Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform your desires and actions to align with God’s will.

See also: example, goals, imitate, influence, leaders, lifestyle, pattern, roles.