Christian Metamorphosis

Webster says metamorphosis is the next change in the life history of a living organism. We can easily see it in the life of a caterpillar as he becomes a butterfly.  But Webster continues this explanation and tells us that it includes the character and circumstances of the life form.  Webster’s definition is not new.  The Bible tells us that a Christian is being transformed into a higher life form. (The Greek word for transformed is metamorphosis. (See Strong’s number 3339.) The Christian metamorphosis begins with a cocoon “of character changes” brought about by the Spirit.  These character changes enable the subject to enter a life that contains entirely different circumstances than that of a worldly person’s life.

A person’s character is molded as a child and a person not living in Christ are never able to change those ways; “as the twig is bent”, etc.  A person’s character (nature) can only be changed permanently by a power not naturally contained within a person’s abilities.  This power is only available through the Holy Spirit of God.  When we invite the Holy Spirit to live in us and lead us in the ways of our God, He brings with Him the power (ability) to change our inner character (our nature or ways).

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Cor 3:17-18 (NLT) 

This verse tells us that within our “natural” state of being, our understanding of spiritual matters is “veiled”.  This means we are unable to fully comprehend anything of a spiritual nature because we can’t see the “big picture”.  When a person actually relinquishes control of their lives to the Holy Spirit, He (the Holy Spirit) removes the “veil” that has kept us from seeing and reflecting in our lives the glory of the Lord. 

Before the yielding of our life to the power of the Spirit, people have certain thoughts and ideas that are formed by our “best guess”.  These thoughts, beliefs and ideas are the veil that must be destroyed or removed.  Then, we are able to see God’s truth with a more clear understanding of many things.  Once our incorrect beliefs and ways of thinking are removed and the truth is “unveiled” before us, the transformation of our character begins and our lives will reflect the power of God.

Paul talked about our metamorphosis in this famous passage: 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. Romans 12:2 (NLT) Many people do not see the two little words “but let” standing in front of our transformation. We must yield our desires to God and accept His transforming ways in our everyday life.  Christians cannot be changed until they want to have this unique life that is being dedicated to the Almighty.

Christians must continually yield to the Spirit to bring the needed power into their life.  The same power that filled the life of Jesus and took him into eternal glory can work within us if we want it and ask for it.  Our change will be both virtuous and eternal.