“Spiritual Transformation”

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)

There are two states that Paul wishes to impress upon the saints- one is likeness to the world, the other is likeness to God.  Paul admonishes a transformation from the first state to the second, and also tells us how to get there.

The first state is likeness to the world.  Paul’s command to the Roman’s:  “Do not be fashioned after the world”.  This would present a challenge to these saints, for it was believed the whole world revolved around Rome.  What does this mean to us?  It suggests that modern Christians must not imitate the world in actions or values.

The second state is likeness to God.  The goal is to live a life that reflects the “good’ (morally right), acceptable (well-pleasing to God), and perfect (needs no amendments) will of God.  This new state is an entirely new way of viewing things.  It will affect your whole life.  It will influence the decisions you make on the job, in your family, and in your recreation.  In this state your focus will no longer be on personal enjoyment, but on pleasing God.

The later state is obtained by being transformed.  This transformation takes place through a renewing of the mind.  It is unreasonable to think that a new Christian can throw off all of the bad habits in one effort like casting off a garment.  Old habits and values are not easily broken.  New ones will be obtained only by prayer, meditation of God’s word, coupled with practice and discipline.

Christianity is a gospel of renewal.  It involves crucifying the old man and yielding to the new.  What a gospel it is!  It invites one to adjure the old sinful self and seek after a new course – to become a new creation in Christ.  In this state there is so much promise both now and eternally.

By George Slover

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