Transformation

Romans 12:2

Do not conform any longer 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.

I'm not prone, or qualified, to do much exegesis yet. But this struck me today. The Greek word for transformed is the same as the English metamorphosis. Basically it means to go from one state of being to another.

So what Paul is saying is for us to go from here:


Where we are extremely limited, homely, and unable to fulfill the purpose that God designed us to for. Caterpillars are slow, vulnerable, voracious eaters (self centered) creatures that can move very little in their lifetime.

But during the amazing process of metamorphosis, they go from this unattractive state to that of a butterfly.


Butterflies are beautiful, mobile creatures that bring joy to many people and migrate thousands of miles during their lifetimes.

Paul's imagery here is a powerful message of how different the Christian life should be from our life apart from Christ. Our appearance may not change, but in the eyes of God we are a new creation, one that brings joy and honor to him.

Dwell on what that transformation means to you. I am.