Radically Transformed

June 23, 2014 Monday Message:

“Do not conform to the world; rather, be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2a

Paul is the poster-boy for radical transformation. As a devoted Jew, his mission was to stomp out this new group, the Christians. But God had other plans.

Paul was struck blind as Jesus personally chastised him. This bold warrior had to be led by the hand into the city, where Ananias prayed and laid hands on him.

And here’s what happened next:

1. The scales fell and Paul’s eyes were opened.

2. Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit.

3. Paul was baptized.

He reversed directions, did a 180º, switched sides. We call this radical transformation. Paul soon became a church-planter, bringing Jesus to the Gentile world.

Still today, the Holy Spirit radically transforms new believers, who receive the blessing of having their lives flipped upside-down. And when someone is radically transformed, they clearly show evidence of their changed life. Everyone knew that Paul had been radically transformed, and they’ll know if you have been radically transformed too.

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) meets every Sunday, at 10:30am, in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week Pastor Van Dickerson continues the “Freedom in Christ” series.