Becoming more like Jesus means progressively conforming our character, thoughts, and actions to His example as revealed in Scripture. This process, called sanctification, is a lifelong journey empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to reflect Christ’s perfect love, humility, obedience, and servant heart to the world.
Many followers of Jesus Christ share a deep longing to genuinely reflect His character and life. This raises a question that has echoed through centuries of faith: “What does it mean to be more like Jesus?” The answer is not just a spiritual platitude; it is the very essence of the Christian journey. It is a yearning to embody the love, grace, and truth that Jesus, the divine Son of God, perfectly demonstrated during His earthly ministry.
A transformative work begins the moment we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior—believing in His divine nature, His sacrificial death for our sins, and His glorious resurrection. This desire to mature in faith finds its ultimate expression in striving to be like Christ. The Bible, God’s authoritative Word, calls us to this path, reminding us that “whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked” (1 John 2:6). This is not about achieving perfection through our own strength, but about submitting to the Holy Spirit’s work as He refines us daily into His image.
In this article, we will explore what the Bible says it means to be more like Jesus. We will delve into Scripture to understand God’s calling for our lives, examine practical steps for spiritual growth, and discover how our worship and daily actions can draw us closer to Christ. Our goal is to help you deepen your understanding, find encouragement for your walk, and receive clear, loving guidance for a life that reflects the Lord Jesus.
What Is a Christian’s Ultimate Calling?
The Journey of Sanctification
A Christian’s ultimate calling is to become more like Jesus. This journey, known as sanctification, is God’s divine process of making us holy and setting us apart for His sacred purposes.
Sanctification begins the moment we place our faith in Christ, but it is not a single event. Rather, it is a lifelong process guided by the Holy Spirit. As believers, we are declared holy in Christ (justification), yet we are also called to live out that holiness in our daily lives.
The Bible clearly defines this call to grow in Christlikeness, revealing God’s desire for our complete dedication and purity.
- Set Apart for God: “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). This verse shows God’s desire for our entire being to be made holy.
- Pursuing Holiness: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14). Holiness is essential for experiencing God fully.
- Conformed to His Image: As we behold Jesus, we are transformed. “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18). This transformation is the essence of becoming more like Jesus.
This journey, however, demands our active participation. We are called to yield to the Spirit’s leading, put off sinful habits, and cultivate virtues that reflect Christ. It is a partnership with God, where He empowers us and we respond in obedience.
An Invitation to Transformation
The call to be more like Jesus is not a heavy burden but an incredible invitation from our loving Creator. It is an invitation to experience true freedom, purpose, and joy as God works to transform us from the inside out.
This spiritual transformation touches every area of our lives by renewing our minds, reshaping our character, and reordering our desires. It calls us to shed our old, sinful ways and embrace a new identity in Christ.
Key aspects of this transformative invitation include:
- Renewing Our Minds: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2). Our thinking must align with God’s truth.
- Putting on the New Self: “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24). This is a conscious choice to live differently.
- Living a Life of Purpose: As we are transformed, our lives gain profound meaning. We become living testimonies of God’s grace and power, reflecting His light in a dark world and fulfilling His Kingdom purposes on earth.
Becoming more like Jesus means allowing His divine nature to permeate our being, leading us to live a life that honors Him in every thought, word, and deed. This is the glorious calling for every believer: to mirror the Son of God.
What Does the Bible Say About Becoming More Like Jesus?
Conformed to His Image (Romans 8:29)
Becoming more like Jesus begins with God’s divine purpose. It is not just our goal; it is His design for us. The Apostle Paul clearly articulates this truth in Romans 8:29.
For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
This scripture reveals God’s ultimate plan for every believer: He predestined us for this transformation. As part of His eternal blueprint for humanity, God planned for us to reflect Jesus—a purpose that precedes our very existence.
To be “conformed to His image” is a profound call to deep, internal renewal. We are to reflect Jesus’ character, including His holiness, purity, unwavering love, and perfect righteousness. As the ultimate human example—fully God and fully man—Jesus provides the perfect nature we are called to mirror. This lifelong journey of transformation marks our spiritual growth and leads to true maturity in Christ.
God does not expect us to achieve this alone; He actively works within us. His Holy Spirit empowers every step of the way. This knowledge brings great assurance and strengthens our faith daily as God shapes us into His Son’s likeness.
Putting on the New Self (Ephesians 4:22-24)
The call to be more like Jesus involves a decisive change that requires abandoning our old ways and embracing a new identity in Christ. Paul powerfully describes this in Ephesians 4:22-24.
to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
This passage presents a clear, three-part command. First, we must “put off” the old self, which represents our life before Christ. Tainted by sin and driven by deceitful desires, shedding this old self is crucial for growth.
Second, we are called to be “renewed in the spirit of our minds.” This vital mental renewal involves changing our thinking, shifting our worldview from worldly to godly, which in turn influences our attitudes and perceptions.
Finally, we are to “put on the new self.” Created in God’s likeness and characterized by true righteousness and holiness, this new identity is a gift received through faith in Christ and lived out in obedience.
This is not a passive process; it demands intentional effort. We must actively choose Christ-like behaviors, reject sinful habits, and cultivate virtues that reflect Jesus, such as love, joy, and peace. This daily choice leads to profound change as we progressively become more like our Savior.
Imitating Christ’s Humility (Philippians 2:5-8)
A cornerstone of Christ-likeness is humility, for which Jesus Himself provided the ultimate example. Paul urges us to adopt this mindset in Philippians 2:5-8.
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
This passage reveals Jesus’ incredible self-abasement. Though He is fully God, Jesus did not cling to His divine privileges. Instead, in an act of supreme love and unparalleled humility, He willingly “emptied Himself” by taking the form of a servant and being born as a man.
His humility did not stop there. Jesus obeyed God perfectly, even to the point of accepting the shame of the cross. This radical obedience is our model for true servanthood and selfless love, and we are called to adopt this same mindset.
For us, imitating Christ’s humility means several things:
- Prioritizing others’ needs: We look beyond our own interests.
- Serving with a willing heart: We embrace tasks, even humble ones.
- Submitting to God’s will: We trust His plan, even when difficult.
- Recognizing our dependence on God: We acknowledge His grace in everything.
Humility is not weakness but profound strength in God. It aligns us with His divine will and makes us truly more like Jesus.
Walking as Jesus Walked (1 John 2:6)
Our call to Christ-likeness extends to our daily conduct, involving the practical outworking of our faith. The Apostle John provides a clear directive in 1 John 2:6.
whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
This verse directly links our profession of faith to our lifestyle. To claim we abide in Jesus means we ought to “walk” as He walked. This is not mere intellectual assent but requires active, consistent obedience where our actions align with our beliefs.
To walk as Jesus walked encompasses various aspects of His life:
- His obedience to God: Jesus always sought His Father’s will (John 5:30).
- His unconditional love for others: He demonstrated compassion and sacrifice (John 13:34).
- His unwavering commitment to truth: Jesus spoke truth boldly and clearly (John 14:6).
- His purity and holiness: He lived without sin (Hebrews 4:15).
- His servant-heartedness: He came to serve, not be served (Mark 10:45).
This commitment is not easy and often challenges our natural inclinations. However, the Holy Spirit empowers us for this journey. He guides us into all truth, enables us to follow Jesus’ footsteps, and transforms our desires. As a result, our daily walk becomes a testimony that proclaims Jesus Christ as Lord and brings glory to God.
How Can I Practically Become More Like Jesus?
Study God’s Word Diligently
To become more like Jesus, we must first know Him deeply. The most profound way to understand His character, teachings, and heart is by diligently studying God’s inspired Word, which serves as our authoritative guide. The Bible not only reveals God’s perfect will but also illuminates the path Jesus walked. Through its pages, Jesus Himself speaks to us.
Practical Steps for Diligent Study:
- Read Regularly: Commit to daily Bible reading. Start with the Gospels to intimately know Jesus’ life and ministry.
- Meditate Deeply: Do not just read; reflect on what you read. Ask, “What does this passage teach me about Jesus? How can I apply it today?” (Psalm 1:2).
- Study Systematically: Use study guides or commentaries, as these tools offer valuable context and help in understanding difficult passages.
- Memorize Scripture: Hide God’s Word in your heart to provide guidance and strength (Psalm 119:105), shaping your thoughts to align with His.
As you immerse yourself in Scripture, the Holy Spirit will illuminate its truths. You will begin to see the world through Jesus’ eyes and increasingly desire to live as He lived.
Develop a Consistent Prayer Life
Prayer, our direct communication with our Heavenly Father, is a vital spiritual discipline. Jesus Himself modeled a life of consistent prayer, frequently withdrawing to be with God (Luke 5:16). Through prayer, we build an intimate relationship with God, align our desires with His perfect will, and begin the process of true transformation.
How to Cultivate Consistent Prayer:
- Set Aside Time: Dedicate specific times each day for prayer, whether in the morning, during a lunch break, or before bed.
- Pray with Purpose: Present your requests to God, give thanks for His goodness, confess your sins, and pray for others earnestly.
- Listen to God: Remember that prayer is a two-way conversation. Take time for quiet reflection to allow the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.
- Pray Scripturally: Use the Bible to guide your prayers. For instance, pray God’s promises back to Him by using specific verses to ask for strength or wisdom.
A consistent prayer life deepens your reliance on God and transforms your heart. As a result, you will find yourself increasingly desiring to please Him, which draws you closer to the character of Christ.
Rely on the Holy Spirit’s Power
Becoming more like Jesus is an impossible task in our own strength. However, God has not left us alone; He has given us the Holy Spirit to accomplish this work. The Holy Spirit indwells every believer, empowering us for sanctification, guiding us into all truth (John 16:13), and producing His fruit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).
Yielding to the Holy Spirit:
- Acknowledge His Presence: Remember the Holy Spirit lives within you and invite Him into every aspect of your day.
- Pray for Guidance: Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and seek His leading in your decisions and actions.
- Obey His Promptings: When the Spirit convicts or guides you, respond promptly in obedience to cultivate spiritual sensitivity.
- Confess Sin Quickly: Since sin grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30), confess and repent swiftly to restore fellowship and allow His work to continue in you.
As you rely on the Holy Spirit, He will empower you with the strength to overcome temptation and enable you to walk in righteousness. This is how we are truly conformed to the image of Jesus.
Engage in Fellowship with Believers
The Christian walk is not meant to be solitary; God calls us into a community of faith—the Church. Engaging in fellowship with other believers is crucial for spiritual growth because it provides encouragement, accountability, and mutual support. As iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17), we help each other become more like Jesus.
Benefits of Christian Fellowship:
- Mutual Encouragement: We uplift one another through shared faith and reminders of God’s faithfulness.
- Accountability: Trusted friends can speak truth into our lives, helping us stay on the right path as we share our struggles.
- Spiritual Gifts: In fellowship, the spiritual gifts of every believer (1 Peter 4:10) are used to build up the entire body of Christ.
- Shared Learning: We learn from one another’s insights and grow through the shared study of God’s Word.
By actively participating in a local church, joining a small group, and building relationships with mature believers, you create an environment that fosters growth and helps you reflect Christ’s love to the world.
Serve Others with a Humble Heart
Jesus Christ perfectly demonstrated humble service. He came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28), even washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17). Following His example by serving others with a humble heart is a powerful way to become more like Him, as it shifts our focus from ourselves and aligns our actions with His selfless love.
Ways to Serve Humbly:
- Seek Opportunities: Look for needs around you, whether by serving in your church or helping in your community.
- Serve Without Recognition: Following Jesus’ example of quiet service, do not seek praise or attention for your acts of kindness.
- Serve All People: Just as Jesus loved and served everyone, extend kindness to friends and strangers alike.
- Serve with Joy: Serve cheerfully and willingly, remembering that you are serving Christ Himself (Colossians 3:23).
As you humble yourself and serve others, your heart will soften, allowing you to embody the compassion of Jesus. Your life will become a testament to His love, truly reflecting His character in the world.
What is the meaning behind songs and hymns about being ‘more like Jesus’?
The Heart of Worship in Song
Songs and hymns hold a cherished place in Christian worship, serving as much more than mere melodies. They are profound expressions of our deepest longings and faith. Singing about becoming “more like Jesus” is a powerful act of devotion that shapes our spiritual journey and draws us closer to our Savior.
Worship through music offers several vital benefits. First, it helps us remember biblical truths, as rhythm and repetition embed these truths into our hearts and minds. Furthermore, it unites believers in a common purpose. Lifting our voices together strengthens our collective faith. The Apostle Paul encouraged this practice, writing, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16).
Therefore, worship music is a powerful tool for spiritual formation. Through it, God’s Spirit works within us, helping us grow into His likeness. Our desire to be “more like Jesus” finds a vibrant voice in these sacred songs, which serve as a declaration of our spiritual aspiration.
Lyrics as a Prayer and Declaration
The lyrics of hymns and worship songs are more than beautiful poetry; they are living prayers and powerful declarations of faith. When we sing phrases like “more like Jesus,” we participate in a spiritual discipline. We speak our deepest desires to God and declare our commitment to follow Christ’s example.
Consider the impact of these words:
- A Personal Petition: Each lyric becomes a personal prayer asking the Holy Spirit to transform us. We express our longing for His character to be formed in us, aligning with Christ’s own example of constant communion with the Father.
- A Public Profession: Singing aloud is a public affirmation of our dedication to Jesus. It is an open declaration of our allegiance to Him as Lord and Savior, which in turn encourages fellow believers in their walk.
- A Formative Influence: The truths in song lyrics shape our worldview by reminding us of Jesus’ humility, love, and obedience. “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:5-7).
These songs call us to action, compelling us to “walk as he walked” (1 John 2:6). Singing about Christ-likeness reinforces our call to sanctification and strengthens our resolve to embody His love, grace, and truth. The words become a sacred vow, deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ, our divine Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘more like Jesus’ mean?
Being “more like Jesus” means actively trying to imitate His character, heart, and actions in our daily lives. This is a lifelong journey of spiritual growth. God’s ultimate purpose for believers is to be shaped into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29).
This sacred journey involves several key aspects:
- Reflecting His Character: We aim to show the same qualities Jesus perfectly displayed, such as His humility, compassion, patience, and unwavering love (Philippians 2:5-8).
- Adopting His Mindset: This means learning to think as Christ thought by prioritizing God’s will and seeking justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23).
- Following His Example: Jesus lived a life of perfect obedience to God the Father. He served others tirelessly and sacrificially (Mark 10:45). We are called to walk as He walked (1 John 2:6).
- Embracing Holiness: Jesus was without sin. As we become more like Him, we grow in holiness by turning away from sin and pursuing righteousness (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Ultimately, becoming more like Jesus means living a life that honors God and allows His light to shine through us into the world (Matthew 5:16).
What Bible verse says to be more like Jesus?
While the exact phrase “be more like Jesus” doesn’t appear in the Bible, the concept is central to Scripture. Many verses command believers to be transformed into His likeness. The most prominent is:
- Romans 8:29: “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”
This verse clearly states God’s purpose for us is to reflect the very image of Jesus Christ. Other scriptures strongly reinforce this call:
- Ephesians 4:22-24: “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Here, being “like God” means reflecting the divine nature that was fully expressed in Jesus.
- Philippians 2:5: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” This specifically calls us to adopt His humble, servant-hearted attitude.
- 1 John 2:6: “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” This verse is a direct command. It means that if we claim to be followers of Christ, our lives should mirror His.
Together, these scriptures show God’s clear desire for us. He calls us to be continually transformed into the likeness of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
How can the Holy Spirit make me more like Jesus?
The Holy Spirit is essential for our transformation into Christ’s likeness. He is the one who empowers us to live a godly life. We simply cannot become more like Jesus through our own strength; we must rely completely on the Spirit’s power.
Here is how the Holy Spirit works within us:
- Convicts and Guides: The Spirit reveals our sin and guides us into truth (John 16:13). This helps us recognize God’s will and align our lives with it.
- Empowers for Obedience: He gives us the strength to obey God’s commands, which allows us to walk in holiness even when it is difficult (Romans 8:13-14).
- Cultivates Godly Character: The Holy Spirit produces the “fruit of the Spirit” in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These are the very characteristics of Jesus.
- Renews Our Minds: The Spirit transforms how we think. He helps us set aside worldly ways of thinking and adopt the mindset of Christ (Romans 12:2).
- Intercedes for Us: When we don’t know how to pray, the Spirit intercedes on our behalf, helping us communicate with God and deepen our relationship (Romans 8:26).
By following the Holy Spirit’s lead, we partner with God in His plan for our lives. Day by day, He gradually shapes us into the image of Jesus Christ. This powerful and ongoing work is called sanctification.