Transform In Worship
Worship transforms us to know God's will
Watch the Sermon
Scripture References
- Romans 12:1-2: A lifestyle of worship leads us to know and live God's perfect will.
- 2 Kings 22-23: The story of King Josiah who was transformed after hearing God's word and actively removing anything that wasn't of God.
- John 1:1-2: The Word is Jesus Himself, and an encounter with Him is what truly transforms us.
Exploring the Greek Terms
συσχηματίζω (syschēmatizō): The term from Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this present world," means to "fashion oneself like" or "to conform to the world." It's an outward change based on worldly influences and opinions. It's about adapting to the patterns and trends of the world instead of being changed from the inside out by God.
μεταμορφόω (metamorphoō): This word, from which we get "metamorphosis," is used for "be transformed." It describes a fundamental, inner change to your nature. This is a divine work that goes beyond outward behavior and changes you from the inside out, just as a caterpillar is transformed into a butterfly.
δοκιμάζω (dokimazō): This is the word used for "test and approve." It means "to test with a view to approving." The purpose of your transformation is to be able to discern and approve God's perfect will in your life. It implies a rigorous process of examination that leads to a positive outcome.
1. Reject the World's Will
The world's will is loud and clear: chase success, follow trends, and live for self. The world wants you to conform to its ways, an outward change that is all about behavior and actions. But true transformation requires rejecting this worldly will, which only leads to a burdensome existence.
2. Transform Through God's Word
Transformation isn't about conforming outwardly; it's about a fundamental change to the essential nature of who you are. This metamorphosis happens through the "renewing of your mind" with God's Word. When your way of thinking is changed by an encounter with Jesus, you no longer think like the world, and your inner self is made new.
3. Know God's Will through Worship
The ultimate purpose of this transformation is so that you may "test and approve what is the will of God." This is a cause-and-effect process: surrender to God, allow His word to transform your mind, and then you will be able to discern and act on His good, well-pleasing, and perfect will. This is the process of being re-created as holy.
A Modern Transformation: King Josiah
Just like King Josiah, who heard the law and humbled himself (surrender), then reformed the kingdom (service), and worshiped God with all he had (transformation), we must do the same. This is what enables us to know and live out God’s will, destroying everything in our lives that isn't of Him.
Challenge for the Week
Reflect and act on these steps to a renewed mind:
- What is one "High Place" in your life that you need to tear down?
- What area of your life needs to be transformed by God's Word?
- Pray for God to reveal His perfect will for your life as you worship Him.
Be different! Be holy as Christ is holy!
