TRANSFORMATION IN CHRIST

The first miracle of Jesus, at Cana, “the water turned into wine” in John 2:1-11, is helpful for us, to realise the need for transformation, in the life of a fallen sinner. This transformation is possible only through the LORD Jesus Christ. Even though other religions talk about sin and salvation, they do not have the concept of transformation, as found in the Bible. The fundamental difference being, transformation and salvation is self achieved in other religions, where as, the Bible defines it as a gift of God, to all who come to Him in faith, and are willing to walk the “Narrow Path.” – John 3:16.

The LORD Jesus also tells us, that…
– “20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” – Matthew 7:20-21. Please note the words – “…but he who does the will of My Father…”

The Bible further tells us about, what happens to all, who truly believe in the LORD Jesus Christ, and become His disciples.
– “17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
– “4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” – Romans 6:4

This “new creation” and the “newness of life” is clearly visible. In some it is more visible, than the others. However, a life that is touched by the LORD Jesus, is certainly transformed from its old self. We no longer desire to do, what we were doing earlier. We desire to do, what pleases our Saviour. The apostle Paul is a fine example. He was transformed from Saul of Tarsus, to Paul the apostle, just like the water was turned into wine.

Melvin Ernest Trotter, is another example of one such transformed life. Melvin was at one time, a hopeless drunkard, who never could not keep a promise, nor hold a job. One day, frustrated with his life, Melvin, wanting to commit suicide, was walking toward Lake Michigan, to drown himself. On his way he crossed the Pacific Garden Mission, where gospel was being preached. There, Melvin Earnest Trotter found Christ…nay, Christ found Melvin, just like Christ found Saul of Tarsus.

Melvin Ernest Trotter’s encounter with Jesus Christ of Nazareth, totally transformed him. He no more was addicted to alcohol. His life transformed completely. He was no more that old Melvin Earnest Trotter…he became a new man in Christ. He went on to live for his Redeemer, and found sixty-seven rescue missions, to help others, who werr as addicted as he himself. Was, once.

How is our transformation going on? May the LORD help us to willing and yielding to Him, so that He could transform us, and make us useful instruments in His hands. Even so the LORD help us.