Koinonia | Apostle Joshua Selman | 2011
In one of his foundational teachings, “Be Like Him,” Apostle Joshua Selman expounds on the ultimate goal of the believer: to conform to the image and likeness of Christ. This message focuses on understanding the nature of Christ, the journey of transformation, and the practical steps believers must take to reflect His character, power, and purpose in their daily lives.
Key Scriptures
- Genesis 1:26 – “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”
- Apostle Selman begins by explaining that humanity was designed to reflect God’s nature and operate as His representatives on earth. However, the fall of man disrupted this design, necessitating the redemptive work of Christ.
- Romans 8:29 – “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son…”
- The journey of salvation is not just about escaping hell but becoming like Christ. This is the essence of discipleship and spiritual maturity.
- Philippians 2:5 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”
- Apostle Selman emphasizes the importance of adopting Christ’s mindset—humility, obedience, and selflessness—as a prerequisite for transformation.
Key Themes
- Understanding the Nature of Christ
- Jesus embodies the perfect balance of character and power. His nature is rooted in love, humility, and righteousness, while His life demonstrates authority and dominion.
- Apostle Selman teaches that being like Christ means embracing His virtues while walking in His authority as co-heirs with Him.
- The Process of Transformation
- Transformation is a journey that begins with salvation but requires intentionality to be sustained.
- Apostle Selman explains the three stages of becoming like Christ:
- Justification: Salvation through faith in Jesus (Romans 5:1).
- Sanctification: The ongoing process of being purified and set apart (John 17:17).
- Glorification: The final stage when believers fully reflect Christ in eternity (1 John 3:2).
- The Role of the Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit is the agent of transformation. He reveals Christ to believers, empowers them to overcome sin, and cultivates the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Apostle Selman highlights that intimacy with the Holy Spirit is non-negotiable for anyone desiring to become like Christ.
- Living the Life of Christ
- To “be like Him” means to manifest Christ in every aspect of life—character, speech, relationships, and influence.
- Apostle Selman challenges believers to reflect Christ in their daily decisions, showing love, compassion, and integrity.
- Practical Steps to Becoming Like Him
- Meditate on the Word: The Bible is the manual for Christ-like living (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Pray for Grace: Transformation requires the empowerment of God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9).
- Walk in Love: Love is the highest expression of Christ’s nature (John 13:35).
- Be Humble and Teachable: Humility opens the heart to correction and growth (James 4:10).
- Serve Others: Jesus modeled servant leadership, demonstrating that greatness is found in service (Mark 10:45).
Challenges to Becoming Like Him
- Carnality: The flesh wars against the spirit, making it difficult to live out Christ’s nature (Galatians 5:17).
- Worldly Distractions: Apostle Selman warns against the influence of materialism and secular philosophies.
- Spiritual Apathy: A lack of hunger for God stunts spiritual growth.
The Rewards of Being Like Christ
- Intimacy with God: Christ-like believers enjoy deeper fellowship with God.
- Authority and Dominion: Reflecting Christ unlocks access to divine power and favor.
- Impact and Legacy: Being like Christ allows believers to influence their generation for the kingdom.
- Eternal Rewards: Those who conform to Christ’s image will reign with Him in eternity (2 Timothy 2:12).
Conclusion and Prophetic Charge
Apostle Selman concludes by reminding believers that the journey to being like Christ is a partnership with the Holy Spirit. He encourages them to:
- Stay rooted in God’s Word.
- Commit to prayer and fasting.
- Surround themselves with a community of spiritually mature believers.
- Pursue holiness and godliness with intentionality.
With a powerful prayer and prophetic declaration, he releases grace over the congregation, empowering them to embrace the transformative journey of becoming like Christ.
“To be like Him is the highest calling of the believer,” Apostle Selman declares. “The world is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God—those who truly reflect His image and glory!”
The greatest way to make yourself known is to make HIM known
Apostle Joshua Selman.
