The adage that “Imitation is the highest form of flattery” is reflected in experience and Scripture.
Experience sees those young boys who idolize their fathers and want to grow up and be just like daddy.
Scripture commands: “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Within these two verses are twin commands: 1) Be(come) an imitator (mimetes, from which our English words “mime” and “mimic” are derived) of God and 2) Walk in love as Christ did for you.
Unlike the adage, imitating your Father and your Savior is not for the purpose of trying to flatter them. You are not seeking to deceive them with insincere praise. Your motive is your great, genuine love of God and your immense gratitude for your Savior’s atonement as the Lamb of God.
Don’t try to flatter God, just seek to imitate Him.
