Transfiguration Sunday (2)

Transformed: The Boldness of Our Faith

Bible Passages: Exodus 34:29–35, Psalm 99, 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2, Luke 9:28–43

Introduction

Nelson Mandela: Mandela is renowned for his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Despite being imprisoned for 27 years, he remained steadfast in his fight against apartheid in South Africa. His boldness and integrity were evident in his refusal to compromise his principles, even when faced with immense personal hardship. Upon his release, he continued to advocate for reconciliation and unity, ultimately becoming South Africa's first black president.

Rosa Parks: Known as the "mother of the civil rights movement," Rosa Parks demonstrated boldness and integrity when she refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. Her courageous act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights in the United States.

Greta Thunberg: As a young climate activist, Greta Thunberg has shown remarkable boldness and integrity in her efforts to raise awareness about climate change. She began by striking from school to protest outside the Swedish parliament, and her actions have since inspired a global movement. Thunberg's unwavering commitment to her cause, despite facing criticism and opposition, highlights her integrity and determination to make a difference.

Martin Luther King Jr.: Dr. King is celebrated for his leadership in the American civil rights movement. His boldness and integrity were evident in his nonviolent approach to advocating for racial equality and justice. Through his powerful speeches and peaceful protests, he inspired millions to join the fight for civil rights, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and moral conviction.

These examples illustrate how individuals can act boldly with integrity, making significant impacts on society through their unwavering commitment to their principles and values.

Boldness is the willingness to take risks and act innovatively, showing confidence and courage. It can also refer to confidence to an impudent or presumptuous degree, or the quality of having a strong, vivid, or clear appearance. For example, boldness can be seen in someone who speaks out against injustice, takes on challenging tasks without fear, or stands up for their beliefs even when it is difficult.

In our scripture readings today, especially in 2 Corinthians, boldness is described as a confident and open proclamation of the gospel, rooted in the hope and glory of Christ. Paul contrasts this boldness with the veiled approach of Moses, who covered his face to hide the fading glory of the old covenant. In contrast, Paul speaks with great boldness because the new covenant, through Christ, brings lasting glory and freedom. This boldness is not just about speaking openly but also about living a life transformed by the Spirit, reflecting the glory of the Lord without fear or hesitation.

Big Idea:

In Christ, we are transformed and empowered to live boldly, showcasing the glory of God and bringing hope to a world longing for truth.

Main Points

1. Confidently Charged by Hope

2 Corinthians 3:12 NIV

Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.

A man stood on the edge of a diving board, looking down into the deep water below. Had he not practiced, he would be filled with fear. But because of the countless times he had rehearsed, he took a deep breath and leaped, trusting that he would break the surface and swim. Similarly, our faith allows us to leap into life's challenges confidently, knowing our hope in Christ assures us of His presence and safety through all dilemmas.

We can live confidently because of the hope and assurance provided by the New Covenant. By understanding the foundation upon which our faith rests, we are empowered to speak and act boldly, knowing that our confidence is derived from Christ's work. This boldness contrasts with fear and speaks volumes in a world that desperately needs hope.

2. Contrast with Concealed Confidence

2 Corinthians 3:13 NIV

We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away.

There is a wondrous contrast here between Moses' veiled approach and the openness we are called to under the New Covenant. There is a freedom found in Christ, to live transparently without fear of fading away. Such transparency can inspire those around us and reveal the enduring glory and presence of Christ in our lives.

3. Confronting Hardened Minds

2 Corinthians 3:14–15 NIV

But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts.

These verses reveal how the minds were hardened under the old system, and how Christ lifts this veil. Today we can reflect on parts of their lives where spiritual veils may exist, obscuring our perception of God's truth. Encouragement should be given towards seeking Christ's power to remove these veils, allowing the fullness of truth and freedom to transform their lives.

4. Transformation Through Turning

2 Corinthians 3:16–17 NIV

But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

There is an incredible freedom and transformation that occurs when a heart turns to the Lord. Herein lies a message of liberation that is central to the Gospel. If we consistently turn to Christ , Our resulting in the removal of constraints that hold us back, increasingly transforming us to reflect His image in ever-greater depth and clarity.

As a child, I once felt trapped beneath a heavy blanket during a game of hide and seek. I was panicked, unable to see or move freely. Yet, the moment my friend lifted the blanket, I felt an overwhelming sense of liberation. Similarly, many of us are living under a veil—a burden that obscures our vision and steals our joy. When we ask Christ to help us remove those heavy layers, we step into light and freedom, ready to embrace the fullness of His plan for our lives.

5. Reflecting Radiant Renewal

2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

Bethany Hamilton: At the age of 13, Bethany Hamilton lost her left arm in a shark attack while surfing. Instead of giving up on her passion, she returned to surfing just one month after the attack and went on to become a professional surfer. Her story of courage and perseverance has inspired many, and she continues to be a motivational speaker and author.

J.K. Rowling: Before becoming one of the most successful authors in the world, J.K. Rowling faced numerous rejections and personal struggles. She was a single mother living on welfare when she wrote the first Harry Potter book. Despite the challenges, she persisted and eventually found a publisher. Her story is a powerful example of how perseverance and belief in one's dreams can lead to extraordinary success.

Stephen Hawking: Diagnosed with ALS at the age of 21 and given only a few years to live, Stephen Hawking defied the odds and became one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of our time. Despite his physical limitations, he made groundbreaking contributions to science and inspired millions with his determination and intellect.

These stories illustrate how individuals can overcome significant obstacles and achieve greatness through resilience, determination, and a positive outlook on life.

Our life stories may not be as dramatic as these examples. In fact our life journey’s may seem quite bland, and our transformation into deeper relationships with Jesus may seem quite slow. Our transformation isn’t instantaneous. It is a process. It is a journey that we undergo, which is a continual act of worship and sanctification, driving more profound reflection of Christ's glory into the world. I Encourage you to embrace this journey, as it is evidence of God's powerful and active work in our lives.

6. Persevering with Purpose

2 Corinthians 4:1 NIV

Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.

I encourage you to reflect on the mercy bestowed upon us, prompting a relationship with Jesus that persists without losing heart. My friends, it is about resilience and perseverance despite challenges, reminding us of the strength and encouragement found in Christ. God's mercy fuels our unwavering commitment to uphold His truth and showcase His enduring glory amidst trials.

7. Living in Luminous Truth

2 Corinthians 4:2 NIV

Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

Paul reminds us to renounce disgraceful ways and embrace truth in every aspect of life. It is important to live authentically and truthfully as testimonies of Christ's work within us. An honest approach to life's challenges illuminates the world with God's light, bringing clarity and truth where deceit once prevailed.

So how can we live our lives boldly:

Sharing the Gospel Openly: Just as Paul spoke with great boldness about the new covenant, believers today can confidently share their faith and the message of Christ with others, even in the face of opposition or indifference. This involves not being ashamed of the gospel and speaking about it with clarity and conviction.

Living a Transformed Life: Boldness in this context also means living a life that reflects the transformation brought about by the Spirit. This includes making ethical decisions, showing love and compassion, and standing up for what is right, even when it is unpopular or difficult.

Facing Persecution with Courage: Just as Paul and the early Christians faced persecution with boldness, modern believers can draw strength from their hope in Christ to endure hardships and remain steadfast in their faith. This might involve standing firm in one's beliefs in environments where Christianity is not welcomed.

Advocating for Justice: Boldness can also be seen in advocating for justice and speaking out against injustice. This involves using one's voice and influence to support the marginalized and oppressed, reflecting the values of the new covenant.

Personal Integrity: Living with boldness means being transparent and honest in all dealings, reflecting the glory of the Lord without fear or hesitation. This includes being truthful, keeping promises, and acting with integrity in both personal and professional life.

These examples illustrate how the boldness described by Paul can be applied in various aspects of life, encouraging believers to live out their faith with confidence and courage.

Applications:

Imagine standing before a mirror, but the reflection is obscured by a veil. You know who you are, yet all you see is blurred. This is how many believers live—holding back from their true identity in Christ. But when the veil is lifted, the clarity floods in. We see ourselves as God sees us—his beloved children, called to walk boldly in faith. When we embrace this identity, challenges transform into opportunities to reflect His glory.

In the book of Exodus, Moses wore a veil over his face after speaking to God, reflecting God's glory but hiding it from the people. Similarly, many of us let insecurities and doubts veil our true identity in Christ. As believers, we are called to remove that veil and live boldly, embracing the light within us. Just as Moses’ face shone with the glory of God, we too can shine by knowing who we are in Christ, impacting those around us.

In the New Testament, Paul reminds us that we are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). This transformation is not just a change in status but a complete renewal of our identity. Think of a man who has struggled with addiction, but upon accepting Christ, he no longer identifies with his past but with his present and future confidence in God’s grace. This new identity empowers him to face life unencumbered by past failures, reflecting Christ’s glory through his resilience.

Conclusion:

The Apostle Paul contrasts the fading glory of the Old Covenant with the enduring glory of the New Covenant established through Christ. He emphasizes the boldness and transparency we have in Christ, inviting us to reflect His glory as we are transformed into His likeness. He teaches that through the grace of God and the work of Christ, we are called to live openly and boldly, unfettered by fear or shame. He highlights the continuous transformation that occurs in our lives. Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Covenant, revealing the ultimate plan of redemption. Through His sacrifice, the veil has been removed, and we now have direct access to God, reflecting His glory in their lives as a testimony of His grace and truth.

Questions to reflect on:

How does the concept of boldness in faith challenge you to speak openly about your beliefs in your daily interactions?

In what ways can you demonstrate boldness in your school or social life while standing up for your values?

Reflect on a time when you felt God calling you to act boldly. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?

How can you practice living authentically and transparently with your friends and family this week?

What 'veils' are currently obscuring your perception of God's truth in your life, and how can you seek Christ to lift them?