Transformation

Transformation is the process of believers being recreated in the likeness of Jesus Christ as described in the following verses:

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
-Romans 12:2

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
-2 Corinthians 3:18

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work."
-2 Timothy 3:16-17

Transformation is the practical and progressive outcome of worshipping Jesus Christ as Lord. Jesus intends that His Lordship pervade every area of our lives. Every thought and act in every area of life is to reflect obedience to Jesus Christ.

The primary means of Transformation are the Word of God and the Spirit of God. Our active part in Transformation is hearing, reading, studying, meditating on, memorizing, and applying the Word of God to our lives. The Word of God is a mirror that reflects our hearts, showing us where we need the Spirit of God to change us. As we see ourselves as God's sees us, we prayerfully depend on God's grace and the Holy Spirit to bring about Transformation. William Edgar describes God's part very well:

"Only God can effect such a change... The great difference between self-generated transformation and biblical conversion is that God is the one ultimately at work to effect the change... The only way we can be transformed is by operating, in all areas of life, under the grace of God, who gives to all who believe in him unconditionally."

We also understand that Transformation best takes place in community with others. Being part of God's family and experiencing the love of God's family are necessary ingredients of Transformation. Just as one brick does not constitute a building, Christians in isolation do not become God's holy temple and dwelling place.

"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit."
-Ephesians 2:19-22

Much of what we do at GFC provides Bible-centered options and relational contexts where Transformation can occur. We encourage all who come to GFC to not only to worship Jesus Christ as Lord but to be continually involved in experiencing Transformation by the power of the gospel.