Changed Into His Image
As we behold the glory of the Lord, we are changed into His image through a profound spiritual transformation.
George Warnock preaches about the transformative power of beholding the glory of the Lord, emphasizing how this reflection changes us into His image. The Greek word 'metamorphoo' used in 2 Corinthians 3:18 signifies a complete and profound transformation, similar to the metamorphosis seen in nature. This word is also used in the transfiguration of Christ and in Romans 12:2 to describe a radical change. Warnock delves into the spiritual significance of this word and how it relates to our own transformation into the likeness of Christ.
Text
"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Cor. 3:18).
Paul tells us that because the veil has been removed from our face we now reflect, as in a mirror, the glory of the Lord one to another; and it is this that changes us into His own image.
The Greek word for "changed" in this passage is "metamorphoo," and signifies a complete changing of form. It is used on three different occasions in the New Testament: in the above passage; in the account concerning the transfiguration of Christ (Matt. 17:2; Mk. 9:2); and in Romans 12:2 where it is translated "transformed." This is the word that men chose from the Greek to signify the change that takes place in certain creatures, known as "metamorphosis." And because of the great spiritual truth that we discover in this phenomena, we want to examine it further.
Sermon Outline
- The Transformation Process
- Beholding the Glory of the Lord
- Reflecting the Glory of the Lord
- Being Changed into His Image
Key Quotes
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord” — George Warnock
Application Points
- As we reflect on the glory of the Lord, we must be willing to let go of our old selves and be transformed into His image.
- The removal of the veil allows us to see the glory of the Lord clearly, enabling us to reflect it in our lives and be changed into His image.
- The transformation process is a gradual one, taking place 'from glory to glory' as we continue to behold the glory of the Lord.