It is possible to convert, change religions- and remain the same person. Converting is simply changing from one religion to another. This happens often in our western world because 'being a Christian is the right thing do.' At least thats what's common in the surrounding east text area codes. There are so many people in our churches who have converted from not being a Christian- to accepting Christianity in the same way their parents vote republican. They just do, 'its the right thing to do.' Thats simply it.
The difference in Transformation is that people are not okay with a simple, 'its the right thing to do' response. I know this can offend lots of people, but I would a large portion of Christians in the southern bible belt have not experienced transformation. Transformation takes place in persons life who does not just become a better person- but rather takes on a complete new identity. Transformation has taken place in a persons life who has internalized that they have been made into a new creation, that it is no longer they who live- but JESUS! As a result, in that persons life the works of the king are evident. The difference between them and a convert, Conversion is: telling someone that they are a Christian. Transformation is: being approached about a recognized change in their life.
The Gospel is making me a different person right now as I have engaged in the lives of young men on campus. The Gospel is alive in my life- and it is evident in my burdened heart for life in lives of lost young men on my campus. I am discovering more and more how much I need the Gospel each day, and in every moment. It has not only Transformed me, but it is doing work in this season that I would title 'Waves.' It is my strength.
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