Worthy of Imitation

Do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God. Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself.—3 John 1:11–12 NASB

John did not have good things to say about Diotrephes (vs. 9–10). He loved to be first. He was quick to condemn others and willing to use inappropriate words. Perhaps thinking of Diotrephes, John wrote that we are not to “imitate what is evil, but what is good.”

But was there anyone they should imitate? Yes! Demetrius. What was different about him? He had “received a good testimony” from everyone. The Greek word is the root of our word martyr. Demetrius was so committed to his faith that he had a testimony that was like a martyr.

He was a consistent witness and committed to being an example for everyone to see. He also had received a good testimony “from the truth itself.” He was so committed to the truth that he would not compromise. Because Demetrius was of God, his life was filled with good things.

Today, remember that others are looking at you, paying attention to what you say and do, and what you do with your resources. Make sure you trust God and show His love to others. Seek to be filled with compassion. Be faithful and live according to the principles of God’s Word.

Be a living testimony, demonstrating the truth of God’s Word. Be an example and witness of your Christian faith. Be like Demetrius, a person worthy to be imitated, who points people to Jesus.

Reflection Question: What does your life say about you?