Column: Jesus transforms lives

In recent weeks, we have reflected on how Jesus demonstrated God’s love by becoming flesh and blood just as we are. Through his teaching, he revealed God’s will and desire for our lives. By his death on the cross, he opened the way for forgiveness and a restored relationship with our Heavenly Father. Believing in and following Jesus leads to a new, transformed life.

Jesus came to bring change. In Luke 4:18-19, he declared that his mission was to “preach good news to the poor… proclaim freedom for the prisoners… release the oppressed.” Many people struggle with habits, addictions and passions that dominate and ruin their lives. Scripture calls these destructive forces sin. Jesus came to set us free from their power and influence.

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians underscores this truth. In Ephesians 2:13 we read, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 5:8 adds, “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” The words “But now” show the shift that occurs when a person’s life is redirected by God’s grace.

Romans 12:1-2 teaches that when we are serious about God, we no longer conform to the pattern of this world but are transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation brings three key changes: justification, which results in a changed record; regeneration, which produces a changed heart; and adoption, which gives us a new relationship as children of God.

Jesus’ work is truly transformational — changing our past, our nature and our future.

Pastor Ray Martin, retired, Great Trail Church of God, Minerva