What does EGW write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "How can I engage more with the character of Christ?"
Answer
To engage more with the character of Christ, you should study His sinless life in the Bible and meditate on His perfection and love. Through this “looking” and daily self‑denial you will be gradually transformed into His image and learn to imitate His divine example in daily life. It is essential to turn your focus away from yourself toward Christ, to adopt His virtues such as humility, patience, and willingness to sacrifice.
The Study of the Divine Example
»We must study the life of Christ and strive to follow the divine example. We must dwell in the perfection of His character and be transformed into His image. No one will enter the kingdom of God unless his will is brought into captivity under the will of Christ.«
Transformation through Observation
»By becoming familiar with the story of the Redeemer, one discovers serious character flaws in oneself; the dissimilarity to Christ is so great that one recognizes the need for radical changes in life. ... By looking – “by looking at Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith” – one is transformed into the same image. Even unconsciously we imitate what we are familiar with.«
Daily Devotion and Obedience
»Whoever wants to build a strong, symmetrical character must give everything for Christ and do so. The Redeemer will not accept a divided service. Daily one must learn the significance of self‑sacrifice. One must study the Word of God, grasp its meaning, and obey its precepts.«
Fixing the Gaze on the Cross
»Let those who wish to perfect a Christ‑like character always keep the cross in view, on which Christ suffered a cruel death to redeem humanity. May they always nurture the same merciful spirit that moved the Savior to offer an infinite sacrifice for our redemption.«
Imitating Jesus in Daily Life
»It is your task to study and imitate the example. Was Christ self‑denying? Then you must also be so. Was He gentle and truly humble? So must you be. Was He zealous in the work of saving souls? So must you be. ... As Christ forgave His enemies, so you will also forgive.«
Heart Transformation through Meditation
»As we contemplate Jesus with repentance and humble trust, who was pierced by our sins and burdened by our sorrows, we can learn to walk in His footsteps. By looking upon Him we are transformed into His divine likeness.«
- Study the character of Christ
- Transformation through observation
- Imitation of the divine example
Original Sources (English)
