Scripture: Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:17-32; Colossians 3:5-10, 12-14; 2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬-‭18

While change and transformation are often used interchangeably, nevertheless they have very different implications. Change does not necessarily require getting rid of the old but improving the old. However, transformation demands that we get rid of the old and embrace the new.

Paul in his letter to the Ephesians challenges believers to a transforming lifestyle made possible by the gospel which provides us our new nature in Christ. In light of who we are, he is calling believers to embrace the necessity of the continual process of putting off the old sinful nature and putting on Christ as we let the spirit renew our mind.

5 key principles to a Transforming Lifestyle:

1. Transformation cannot happen unless you and I have a new spirit to live by (Ephesians 4:17-21, Romans 12:1, 2 Corinthians 5:17-18, Romans 1:16, Galatians 5:16, Romans 8:5-8)

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. —2 Cor. 5:17-18  

You and I do not have the power for real transformation, only when we embrace the power of the gospel, and are given a new nature by the Spirit, can real transformation begin.  

2. Transformation cannot happen if we want to hold on to the old self. We must let go of it—Put it to death. (Ephesians 4:22, Romans 12:2, Colossians 3:5-9)

7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.—Colossians 3:7-9  

Those who have embrace Christ are called to have an entirely different mindset, a radical alteration of our view on life and how we live that demands we reject the former life.  

3. Transformation demands that our minds be under the jurisdiction of the Spirit of God in constant renewal with the word of God. (Ephesians 4:23-24, Romans 12:2, Colossians 3:10) 

10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. —Colossians 3:10  

The mind is the control tower where worldviews and core beliefs are formed which instruct the heart and then is executed in everyday life through our bodies. Everything we do is directly related to what is happening in our minds.   

4. Transformation is a progressive continual journey. (Ephesians 4:23-24, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 3:18)  

18 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. —2 Corinthians 3:18  

The transformation process never ends. The Holy Spirit continually renews our mind as we submit to God’s truth.  

5. Transformation requires the exercise of the new self in the practical behaviors of everyday living. (Ephesians 4:25-32, Romans 12:2, 9-10) 

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. —Romans 12:9-10  

Character transformation requires training that expresses itself in selfless humility and in service to others.  

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. —Colossians 3:12-14

When transformation is taking place, our mind is guided by God’s truth, which leads to character transformation so that we respond to life’s circumstances in loving Christlike attitude rather than react with impulsive malice behavior.

Examine yourself: Is transformation taking place?

Recommended book: The Miracle of Life Change—How God transforms his children (Chip Ingram)