SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION - OKEY SOKAY

Title: Spiritual Transformation: Becoming More Like Christ

Bible Verse: Romans 12:2 (NIV)
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

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“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬


Introduction:

Spiritual transformation is a lifelong process in which believers are conformed to the image of Christ by the work of the Holy Spirit.


Spiritual transformation is a life long process.

It doesn’t happen overnight

Trans-Formation. - Moving into another state of formation.

It is a journey of growth, renewal, and becoming more like our Savior.

Through the power of God's Word, prayer, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we are continually transformed from the inside out.


Let us explore the key aspects of spiritual transformation and its significance in our lives.

- It starts with ;
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1. Surrender and Renewal:


‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life].”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Before you can “Be in Christ” , you need to surrender to Christ so you can be grafted into the body.”

True transformation begins when we surrender our lives to Christ.

True transformation involves
- acknowledging our need for Him,
- and placing our trust in His finished work on the cross.

Through this initial act of surrender,

we become new creations grafted in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).


Then The Holy Spirit begins a work of renewal in us, trans-forming our hearts, minds, and desires to align with God's will.

Number 1 aspect to spiritual transformation is

1. Surrender and renewal :


2. The Renewing of the Mind:

Central to spiritual transformation is the renewing of our minds.

Our thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives are often shaped by the world around us.

However, God calls us to be set apart and to think differently (Romans 12:2).

Through the study and meditation on God's Word, our minds are transformed, and we gain the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).


“For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes].”
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬


As we fill our minds with truth, we begin to discern God's will and make choices that align with His purposes.


3. The Role of the Holy Spirit:

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in our spiritual transformation. He convicts us of sin, guides us into truth, and empowers us to live godly lives. It is through His presence and work within us that we experience true transformation. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, He produces the fruit of the Spirit in our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). We become more like Christ as we rely on the Spirit's power to shape our character and conduct.

4. Intimacy with God:

Growing in intimacy with God is essential for spiritual transformation. As we spend time in His presence, through prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers, we deepen our relationship with Him. The more we know and love God, the more we desire to align our lives with His purposes. Intimacy with God opens us up to His transforming work and allows us to experience His love, grace, and guidance in a profound way.

5. Community and Accountability:

Spiritual transformation is not an individualistic journey. God intends for us to grow within the context of a community of believers. By engaging in authentic relationships, we find encouragement, support, and accountability. We are called to bear one another's burdens, speak truth in love, and spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24-25). In the community of believers, we find iron sharpening iron, and we are challenged and inspired to live out our faith.

Conclusion:

Spiritual transformation is a lifelong process