But we all, with unveiled face,
beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord,
are being transformed into the same image
from glory to glory,
just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
– Corinthians 3:18
God desires to change our lives. The question is whether we want to be changed, and will we allow God to change us. We are to be transformed into the image of God.
The word “transformed” Paul uses in 2 Corinthians 3:18 in Greek (in which the New Testament was originally written), means “to be changed into another form.”
We see it used also in Matthew when Yeshua is with His disciples on the mountain. Matthew writes that Yeshua “was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light” (Matthew 17:2). Notice that it was not only Yeshua’s appearance that changed, but also His essential form. The face of the Son of God shone with Divine glory. Likewise, His clothes radiated God’s glory. Yeshua was completely changed, or, trans¬formed. The disciples witnessed this transformation.
Additionally, in the book of Romans, Paul implores, “do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2). The Apostle Paul emphasizes that it is essential for us to renew our thinking through the power of God if we want to know God’s will for our lives. God transformed Paul’s life, and people who knew him before witnessed it.
The Word of God calls us to be transformed. However, it can take time, as it is a process. Even still, we can trust that God has the power to transform our very beings. As He transformed Yeshua on the mountain and Paul throughout his conversion and life; He transforms us today. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives without measure is the Person actively transforming us. It is important as believers, to remain exposed to other believers who are being transformed into the image of the Son of God. God transforming people’s lives is the very power of the Gospel made manifest.
Editor’s note: This article is a section from Andrey’s book Come With Me Into His Presence.