Exploring the Text: True transformation
It often seems like true transformation eludes us. We want to change, we want to be different, but it seems like we can never quite make it. We try with all our will, but we fall back into old habits and patterns. In this passage, Paul gives us some insight into how we can really change. He tells us not to be conformed, or pressured, into the pattern of this world, but rather to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, or by changing the way we think. True transformation takes place in the mind first. We have to change what we believe about God, about ourselves, and about the world around us in order to truly change. This is not always an easy process. We frequently need God's help to really change the way we think, but this is where transformation begins. If you have an area of your life that you feel needs to change, start by trying to get God's perspective, his truth, about it first. When we focus on God's truth and it begins to change our thinking, or renew our mind, then we can begin to see genuine transformation take place in our lives.
David Dalton
It often seems like true transformation eludes us. We want to change, we want to be different, but it seems like we can never quite make it. We try with all our will, but we fall back into old habits and patterns. In this passage, Paul gives us some insight into how we can really change. He tells us not to be conformed, or pressured, into the pattern of this world, but rather to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, or by changing the way we think. True transformation takes place in the mind first. We have to change what we believe about God, about ourselves, and about the world around us in order to truly change. This is not always an easy process. We frequently need God's help to really change the way we think, but this is where transformation begins. If you have an area of your life that you feel needs to change, start by trying to get God's perspective, his truth, about it first. When we focus on God's truth and it begins to change our thinking, or renew our mind, then we can begin to see genuine transformation take place in our lives.
David Dalton
Exploring the Text: Saved to serve
In Paul's mind, there was not such thing as a non-serving Christian. In this passage he talks about how everyone has received a measure of faith and a gift from God. They may all be different, just like the parts of the body are different, but they are all important and needed., just like the different parts of the body. Paul's expectation is that as a Christian, you have a place to serve in God's mission. Whatever that place may be, wherever and however God has gifted you, find a way to get involved in God's mission. Put the faith and the gift that he has given you to work and be an active part of his body.
David Dalton
In Paul's mind, there was not such thing as a non-serving Christian. In this passage he talks about how everyone has received a measure of faith and a gift from God. They may all be different, just like the parts of the body are different, but they are all important and needed., just like the different parts of the body. Paul's expectation is that as a Christian, you have a place to serve in God's mission. Whatever that place may be, wherever and however God has gifted you, find a way to get involved in God's mission. Put the faith and the gift that he has given you to work and be an active part of his body.
David Dalton