Which is more important, to do what God says or to be like Christ? It shouldn’t take serious Bible readers long to say that both are essential. The God of the Bible is a commanding God, and not just in Torah (“The Law”). God commands his people through the prophets, through New Testament letters, and most especially through Messiah Jesus.
In the New Testament, believers are instructed often to imitate Jesus. We are to copy Jesus’ humility (Philippians 2), we are to fix our eyes on Jesus as we run our race (Hebrews 12), and most of all we are to love as Jesus loved (John 17 and many other passages). The New Testament often tells us what to do or not do, but even more frequently it tells us of Christian virtues: joyfulness, peace-ableness, patience, kindness, generosity, and especially love.
A Bible reader might be tempted to conclude that the Old Testament is about Godly behavior, while the New Testament is about Godly character, but the story of Joseph in Egypt upsets such a generalization. First, one can see vices: Joseph’s brothers, exhibiting jealousy, sold him into slavery in Egypt. Potiphar’s wife displayed lust when she tried to seduce Joseph; when he resisted, Joseph was put in prison. While in prison, Joseph correctly predicted that Pharaoh would restore the “butler” (or “cup-bearer”) to his position at court, but the butler neglected to speak up for Joseph until much time had passed.
In contrast, consider the aspects of Godly character that readers can see in this story:
1. Joseph practiced self-control when tempted by Potiphar’s wife.
2. Joseph demonstrated wisdom, both by interpreting dreams and governing justly.
3. Joseph forgave his brothers, practicing reconciliation. Yes, they intended him evil, but he gave glory to God for turning it to good.
Now, not everything read in the stories of Old Testament “heroes” should be imitated. Some of the “greatest” figures of the Bible are morally flawed. The only perfect example is Jesus. Nevertheless, it is instructive to see how a character like Joseph exemplifies various aspects of Christ-like character.
Dr. Phil Smith, George Fox University