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

A role model is a person whose behaviour, example, or success is an incentive and goal to follow and pattern yourself after. Younger people may idolize professional athletes or entertainment artists, yet the Bible calls us to look higher. Because those we imitate shape our character, values and walk with God, we must choose our models with great care.

The Importance of Godly Role Models

We all look up to someone, even if subconsciously—be it a teacher, parent, friend, pastor or public figure. Parents have a key role in this: "Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not 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 likewise to be role models of righteousness: "In everything set them an example by doing what is good" (Tit 2:7). Paul repeatedly urged believers to "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). Yet not every example is healthy. False teachers within the church are negative role models, leading many away with depraved conduct and bringing the way of truth into disrepute (Mt 24:5; 2 Pet 2:1-2).

Who am I imitating?

We need confidence that our role models are people of integrity and godly character, not merely charisma. After all, if we want to become like them, we should observe their lifestyle carefully—because we may well end up just like them.

Imitating Christ in Daily Life

Jesus Christ is the perfect role model. 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; He conversed constantly 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 brings about the death of the old sinful, carnal lifestyle and attitudes, while also bringing glory to God and benefit to others as we no longer live for ourselves (2 Cor 5:15; Gal 2:20; Col 3:5-10).

Be imitators of God – Ephesians 5:1

Being a Role Model for Others

As we follow Christ, we must remember that others are watching us. Our lifestyle, choices and attitudes become an example to those around us, whether we intend it or not. The Bible says, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm" (Prov 13:20). We should therefore live in harmony with others, display the fruit of the Spirit, and always endeavour to live a life worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in every way and living by what the Spirit desires (Rom 8:5,12, 12:16; Gal 5:22-23; Col 1:10). Even when human role models fail, Christ remains the unchanging standard we both follow and proclaim.

Who is watching my example?

Godly people are the flesh-and-blood role models of Jesus. Through their visible lives, others can see what it means to follow Christ and be drawn to Him.

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.