Not Just Saved -- Transformed

A whole world of potential is deposited within us when we’re born again. We know it. We believe it. We can taste it. But perhaps, in all honesty, it isn't springing forth very abundantly. Could it be that our transformation into effective Christ-followers has been delayed because we still think like the world?

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect (Rom. 12:2NLT).

So what do you think? If we think and act like our fellow Christians, are we safe from the "behavior and customs of this world"? Well . . . 

. . . how about the large group of Christians who feel that it is virtuous to heap sarcasm on right-wing politicians who do not always uphold traditional Christian values? In reacting this way toward opposition, are they being distinctively Christian? Let's check it out:

For the Lord’s sake, respect all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. . . . It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God, and respect the king (1 Peter 2:13, 15-17).

Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. . . . Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone (Rom. 12:14, 17-18).

The early Christians really lived like this. And they rocked the world.  

We will be world-transformers also, as we let God--by his Word and by his Spirit--radically change the way we think.


P.S.  A God-changed mind releases God's "good and pleasing and perfect" will in every area of our lives.   J The political arena is just one example.