Being Transformed
Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 3:12-18
We … are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory…
2 Corinthians 3:18
Our renewal depends on the power and wisdom of God in the cross of Christ. But that brings up a deep question: How many of us actually want to be renewed? If social researcher George Barna is right, we probably don’t. His surveys have discovered that 3 out of 5 Christians are not involved in an effort to grow spiritually.
Apparently many Christians ask, “Why should I change?” I’ll give you the simple answer of our text—because God is continually involved in a change project that is centered in you. “We … are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
We should change—indeed, we should want to change, because the crucified and risen Lord is changing us. That changes our view toward change, doesn’t it? It should not be thought of as a grim duty, a tedious obligation, or a heavy burden we must pick up. No, change is a privilege, an opportunity, a joy. In a world that thinks we are all locked into an endless chain of cause and effect, this text gives us incredible good news. We are free to change in ways the world cannot begin to imagine.
The root word for “transformed” in our text is the Greek word metamorpho, also used to describe the change of a caterpillar to a butterfly. By the power of his crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus is transforming us into his beautiful likeness.
Lord Jesus, as you change us from within, fill us with a sincere desire to become like you. Amen.
About the author — Stanley Mast
Beginning in 1971, Rev. Stanley Mast has served churches in Missouri, Colorado, and Michigan. After teaching at Calvin Theological Seminary for a few years, he was the minister of preaching at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, until his retirement in 2012. Stan and his wife, Sharon, enjoy time with their two sons and five grandchildren.
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