Imitation Christians

Imitation is a peculiar English word.  Imitaion was first used in the Latin language in 1502, derived from the word image.  However, when the word "imitation" is used in English it has a couple of different meanings. 

For example:
1. Imitation is used in a negative sense, in that, it is not authentic or real.  It's a fake.
2. Imitaion can also be used in the sense that it is a copy or duplicate of someone or something else.

When the followers of Jesus were called "Christians" in Antioch they were being called imitation Christs.  "Christian" means little Christ.  It was a slanderous remark that was being made.

When we read Hebrews 6:12 we are told to be "imitators"
 "...so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."(emphasis mine)

Also in Hebrews 13:7 it says, "Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God.  Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." (emphasis mine)

We are to be imitators, imitating the faith and patience (along with all other godly charateristics) of those who have already lived their life well. 

We are to be imitation Christians.  Not fake, or unauthentic, rather Christains that imitate those who have lived well already.  I think that the list of those who we should look to would be those who we know personally and have taught us God's word (Heb 13:7), and those who have gone on before us who we can only know by reading about their faith (Heb 11- 12:1).  Ultimately considering Jesus, (who we should know personally and by reading His autobiography) most of all, since he is the "founder and perfecter of our faith" (Heb 12:2).  Our faith begins with Jesus (Eph. 1:4) and is perfected by Him (Phil 2:12-13), but is aided by observing and learning also from those who have lived well in faith and patience.

Be an imitation Christian.  Find a good biography, and be filled with a joyful zeal to finish well.
I recomend a series of biographys by Dr. John Piper called The Swans are Not Silent.