Glorious Transformation

We kicked off October by looking at transformation. Just as the fall foliage transforms by God’s design, we are designed to be transformed too. We turned to 2 Corinthians 3, where Paul contrasts the old covenant with the new.

We walked through three points. First, transformation by the Spirit reflects God’s glory. The Greek word is metamorphoo, the same word used to describe Jesus at the transfiguration. When we gaze upon his glory with unveiled faces, a metamorphosis takes place. Our countenance changes. Others can see it.

Second, transformation in Christ makes us new and different. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. The new has come. God reconciles us to himself and gives us the ministry of reconciliation.

Third, transformation is a patient, gradual process. Perfection comes later. Paul says in Philippians 3 that he hasn’t already obtained it. He presses on. We await a Savior who will transform our lowly bodies to be like his glorious body. For now, the Spirit is a downpayment, and the work is ongoing.

We closed with Romans 12:1-2. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

Something to sit with this week:

Where is God transforming you right now? And where are you resisting the change?