"Just Like Jesus" - Pastor Joel Sarmiento

“For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” — John 13:15

What we consistently behold, we eventually become. This concept is reflected in Cultivation Theory, proposed by communication scholar George Gerbner. The theory suggests that prolonged exposure to media—especially television—gradually shapes a person’s values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Over time, individuals unconsciously begin to reflect what they regularly consume.

In much the same way, as Christians, we are shaped by what we give our time and attention to. If we desire to become more like Jesus, we must intentionally cultivate our relationship with Him through prayer and the study of God’s Word. Time spent with Christ transforms us.

Jesus Himself modeled this dependence on the Father. He spent much time in prayer, fully aware of His continual need to remain connected to God. Scripture tells us that Jesus prayed early in the morning (Mark 1:35) and often at night—sometimes all night (Luke 6:12). He prayed at pivotal moments of His ministry: at His baptism (Luke 3:21), before choosing the twelve disciples (Luke 6:12–13), during the transfiguration (Luke 9:29), when teaching His disciples how to pray (Luke 11:1), and in Gethsemane before His betrayal and crucifixion (Luke 22:40–41).

Jesus also lived with a clear and unwavering purpose—to bring people into the kingdom of God. As He declared, “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).

Ellen G. White beautifully summarizes Christ’s approach to ministry:

“Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 73)

Jesus has given us an example to follow. As we spend time with Him—thinking, praying, studying, and serving—we are gradually transformed into His likeness. The more we behold Christ, the more we become just like Him.

Pastor Joel L. Sarmiento

Monterey Peninsula Seventh-day Adventist Church