Being Transformed

            “Sanctification (God making us righteous through his Spirit’s indwelling), though begun the moment we are justified, is gradual and throughout this life incomplete, as we are being transformed into the likeness of Christ ‘from one degree of glory to another’ (2 Cor. 3:18).”

John Stott, The Cross of Christ, p. 186

            My life, like so many projects I’ve started, is an unfinished masterpiece.  The reason I remain unfinished is because there are a lot of attitudes that need to be changed; many old habits that need to be stopped; countless sins that need to be abandoned; and several blessings to appreciate; many new activities to be a part of; countless righteous deeds to add in to my daily activity.  Until all of this is accomplished, I am an unfinished work in God’s hands.  But that’s okay with God – so many of the New Testament writers struggled with becoming and overcoming and transforming into the likeness of Jesus.

            This improvement process is called sanctification.  This comes from the term “holy” (Latin = “sanctus”) and means “to be set apart” or “special” or, in a sense, “different” from the rest of the world.  It can refer to people (Acts 20:32; 1 Cor. 1:2; 6:11; Heb. 10:29; 13:12) or objects that are dedicated to religious acts of worship. 

            By calling His people “saints” (“sanctified ones”) God is indicating some very important truths about ourselves:

            (1) that we are special compared to those who are still lost in sin (1 Pet. 2:9),

            (2) that we are to hold each other in high regard (John 13:35),

            (3) that we are to be busy taking care of each other (Gal. 6:10). 

       However, it is also important to note that we are never finished or complete or flawless in holiness.  It is an on-going process of growth and improvement.  As the quote above points out, our transformation into the likeness of Christ never ends.  It’s a life-long journey.

       That may frustrate many people who are impatient and desirous to see immediate results for their hard work. But “quick fixes” rarely last and they seldom grow to be appreciated.  So rather than seeing this reality as a negative thing be thankful to God for His patience and willingness to help you work through this lengthy improvement process.  Be grateful that He considers you special enough to be willing to mold you and shape you and work on you as He transforms your life into a masterpiece that He can be proud of.

Doug