Metamorphosis – A Living Sacrifice

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:1-2

In a 2012 article in Scientific America, Ferris Jabr graphically explains “How Does a Caterpillar Turn into a Butterfly?” He states:

“To become a butterfly, a caterpillar first digests itself. But certain groups of cells survive, turning the soup into eyes, wings, antennae and other adult structures.

Quite literally, the caterpillar is broken down to the cellular level, and emerges as a completely new—and radically different—flying insect. This mysterious transformation is known as a “Metamorphosis”.

We find the root of this word used by the Apostle Paul in Romans 12 as he writes about transformation (metamorphousthe). He challenges his readers to no longer conform to the world system, but be transformed by the renewing of their minds. He urges them to live, not to die, as a sacrifice to God. In this way, the life of the believer becomes a fragrant viverent worship to Him.

This ongoing process of “metanoia”—an ancient Greek word meaning, “to change one’s mind”, often translated as “repentance”—is a work of the Holy Spirit. We experience this authentic “change,” not based on our efforts, but rather as a byproduct of God’s mercy and our willingness to surrender to His transforming power in our lives.

To follow Christ is to undergo a metamorphosis—to be changed, renewed, reborn to new life—to be “born again” by the Spirit. In Christ, we become completely different, a new creation!

On today’s “Empowering Word,” we begin a new series called, “The TransformedLife.” I pray this message encourages and empowers you to become a “living sacrifice;” living transformed by the work of the Holy Spirit.

In Christ,
Pastor Ken