Transformation: A Reality

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. The Bible tells us that a Christian is being transformed into a higher life form. (The Greek work for transformed is metamorphosis. See Strong’s number 3339.) The Christian metamorphosis begins with a cocoon “of character changes” caused by the Spirit. This enables the subject to enter a life that contains entirely different circumstances than that of a normal life. Of course, we will not receive our new “butterfly” body until Jesus returns for us someday. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven… … First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 1 Thess 4:16-17 (NLT) First we change into virtuous and later we become eternal.

Character changes are rare in this world. Usually people have their character formed as children and are never able to change their ways. As the twig is bent, etc. The exception is a Christian because their character always changes for the better. If it does not then they were never born again. 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 two little words “but let” standing in front of our transformation. We must yield our desires to God and accept His transforming ways into our everyday life. Christians cannot be changed until they want to have this unique life that is being dedicated to the Almighty. The Bible tells us we can share in God’s glory. The metamorphosis we are talking about is to make us into a virtuous person.

Power is necessary for this great change in people. In this world we believe our eyes when we see the power of a nuclear bomb being exploded. For some reason we don’t see the power involved when a person’s life is being changed. The Scriptures tell us about a time when three men saw the transformation and were very impressed. Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light. Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus.  Matt 17:1-4 (NLT) The word here in Greek is also metamorphosis. We do not yet shine like Jesus or can we talk with the old prophets but we will someday. In that day people will see the power that is transforming us and will be very impressed.

This power can only change our lives when we invite the Spirit to live in us and lead us in the ways of our God. 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 we can observe the glory of God when the Spirit removes the religious veil from our eyes. Whatever our spiritual ideas are before the yielding of our life to the power of the Spirit, these religious ideas are the veil that must be destroyed. Then we will begin to reflect the power of God as our transformation into the image of Jesus continues. 

Many Christians keep their spiritually inside of themselves and are not able to be the example to other people that Jesus wants them to be. Representing Jesus to the world will help us grow into a maturity that will be rewarded in Heaven someday. Christians must continually ask the Spirit to bring the needed power into their life. If we keep our spirituality within us it becomes a very selfish thing. Every example given in the Bible shows a person whose spirituality is lived out toward others with love. The goal of our metamorphosis is to be like Jesus who spent every part of His life in service to others. The same power that filled the life of Jesus and took him into eternal glory can live inside of us if we will ask for it. Our change will be visual, virtuous and eternal.