Metamorphosis

Introduction

Transformed “metamorphosis” a process of change (as you mature spiritually) renewing your mind by focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes. This proves to yourself the Will of God, His plan and purpose for you.

Metamorphosis comes from the Greek word transformed and indicate change “from the inside out.” The term is used twice in reference to Christ’s transfiguration (matt. 17:1,2; mark 9:2). Jesus’ brightness was His inner person shining through, visible on the outside. His brightness should likewise shine through His followers.

Body

(Romans 12:2) Conformed was sometimes used for masquerade or an act. If people conform to the world’s standards of behavior. They mask who they really are in Christ. The Christian’s life should be marked by transformation, seen through the renewing of the mind, ever seeking to grow in understanding to discern (or prove) God’s will (Eph.4:23).

believers can and should participate in the process of putting off old man and putting on the new man. But ultimately both the process and outcome being God; He is the one who transforms people. Every believer can be assisted in the all-important work of being renewed in his or her mind (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 4:16) by practicing the spiritual disciplines: bible study and memorization, prayer and worship, service and ministry, witnessing and missions, giving to God, fasting, and church attendance.

Matt 16:24-28- in this passage; Jesus shares with His disciples the three laws of discipleship:

1. Law of self-denial: “let him deny himself.”

2. Law of sacrifice: “take up his cross.”

3. Law of submission: “follow Me.”

But the Lord does not just leave them with these responsibilities. He qualifies them by pointing out the rewards that belong to those who are disciples:

· dependability of discipleship: “for whoever describes to save his life will lose it, “meaning that joy and fulfillment are found when we exchange our lives for the life of Christ.

· Price of discipleship: “what profit is it…if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? “We all get only one chance to live by faith as believers. It is priceless.

· Prize of discipleship: “He will reward each according to his works.”

also in these verses, Jesus gives perhaps the clearest presentation of discipleship found in the bible. its cost is exceeded only by its reward (Luke 17:33; John 12:25; Acts 14:22)

in the beatitude Jesus pronounces both blessings and woes. even though His disciples will be treated as insignifcant by the world, they are blessed because of their identifaction with Him. on the other hand those who do not follow Christ and seek the blessings of this world now will experience condemnation in the future.

Lexham Context Commentary: New Testament (The Beatitudes (Luke 6:20–26))