Bible Daily

Transforming Through Faith: A Biblical Perspective

If you've spent time in church, you've likely encountered the scripture:

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Romans 12:2, NIV).

These words from the Apostle Paul to the Romans carry a profound message about the Christian journey. They urge us to resist the pull of worldly influences and instead embrace a transformation that aligns with God's divine purpose.

Understanding Transformation in Christianity

The scripture calls for a transformation, not a mere adjustment. Here's what it means:

  • Conform: This implies shaping oneself according to the world's standards, like dough being molded into a cookie cutter's shape. It's about taking on the appearance and values of the world, which are often temporary and fleeting.

  • Transform: From the Greek word metamorphoo, it suggests an inner change that reflects outwardly, much like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. This transformation begins with being in the presence of God, through worship and prayer, which leads to an inner renewal.

The Process of Transformation

Transformation starts with presenting ourselves as living sacrifices, a concept rooted in the Old Testament practice of offering sacrifices at altars. Today, our altar is one of prayer and worship:

  • Presenting Yourself: This act of surrender is the 'meta' part of metamorphosis, where we spend time with God, allowing His presence to change us from within.

  • Renewing Your Mind: This is the 'morphoo' part, where the inner change begins to manifest outwardly. Jesus highlighted this in Luke 6:45, "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart."

Why Transformation is Essential

The purpose of this transformation is to discern and embrace God's will:

  • Discerning God's Will: Transformation equips us to understand what God desires for our lives, leading to a life that is good, pleasing, and in line with His perfect will.

Conformity vs. Transformation

Christians face a choice:

  • The Way of Conformity: This path leads to a life focused on worldly pursuits, missing out on God's best. John describes these pursuits as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16).

  • The Way of Transformation: Here, the Christian life is marked by joy and fulfillment, as one aligns with God's will, experiencing true satisfaction and contentment.

Practical Steps for Transformation

To aid in this transformation:

  1. Guard What You Let In: Be mindful of the company you keep and the conversations you engage in, as they influence your character.

    "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character'" (1 Corinthians 15:33).

  2. Guard What You Put In: Be intentional about what you consume through media, reading, and listening. Paul advises:

    "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things" (Philippians 4:8).

In essence, the call to not conform but to transform is a directive for every Christian to live out their faith in a way that reflects God's will, leading to a life of purpose, joy, and eternal significance.