Transformation in Discipleship

At the heart of discipleship is “transformation”, the transformation of the believer into the “image of Christ” (Romans 8:29). In fact, that is our aim in everything that we do: to see people surrender to Jesus as Lord and be consistently transformed into His likeness.

The context of that transformation is the local church, the body of Christ, the community of believers who have committed themselves together as an identifiable group of believers for the purpose of mutual edification and mission in their community and beyond.

I want to share a few quotes this week from a friend of mine to help us think about the God-given means of “transformation” that are available to us in the context of the local church and her ministries. Here are three of them:

“Transformation takes place when a surrendered disciple understands the role of the Holy Spirit and lives daily with a fresh awareness of his power and presence, and regularly engages wholeheartedly in meaningful, God-focused worship experiences.”

“Transformation takes place as a surrendered disciple nurtures his relationship with God by consistently growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, increasingly reflecting His attitudes, behaviors and character in every aspect of life.”

“Transformation takes place when a surrendered disciple pursues the daily spiritual disciplines of personal prayer, Bible study, and reflection; recognizes every resource comes from God and is to be used generously for Kingdom priorities and purposes; practices God-honoring servanthood and develops personal life management skill within the context of a safe and affirming group of like-minded believers who are accountable to one another.”

Now, I would like to ask us a question: are we availing ourselves to these God-given means of grace for our transformation in a consistent manner?

These are some very thought-provoking statements, aren’t they? They help us to think through and process the “transformation” that is happening in our lives, or the lack of it. Transformation doesn’t just automatically happen. Certainly, it is by grace through faith and the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gives believers the desire for transformation and draws believers to those means of biblical transformation.