Ever wonder how Jesus transforms people and changes their lives forever? It’s a powerful truth that goes beyond surface-level changes—it’s about a complete renewal of our inner nature. Let’s explore how this transformation works and what it means for those who place their faith in Him.
Before encountering Christ, our nature is a significant issue. Think about it: our old nature, or who we are apart from God, can be described as “smelly”—not just in a literal sense, but spiritually. It represents the flaws, brokenness, and sin that separate us from God. We might try to do better or apologize when we mess up, but our efforts alone aren’t enough to address the root problem. Thankfully, Jesus doesn’t just offer forgiveness; He offers a new nature.
The transformation begins when we recognize that our old nature cannot save us or bring us into a relationship with God. As the Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature. [Reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit.] The old things have passed away; behold, new things have come” (AMP). This isn’t about behavior modification—it’s about a spiritual rebirth.
When we place our faith in Jesus, we participate in His death and resurrection. Our old nature dies with Him, and we are raised to new life, just as He rose from the grave. This means that our identity is no longer tied to who we were before Christ. The “smelly” parts of our past are replaced by a renewed nature shaped by the Holy Spirit.
This transformation is ongoing. While our nature is made new, we still grow in understanding and living out this identity. Sometimes, we fall short. In those moments, we can turn to God with humility, saying, “Father, forgive me.” And God, in His grace, says, “Okay, son, I’ll help you with this.” He doesn’t abandon us; He continues to guide and strengthen us as we grow into the likeness of Christ.
The beauty of this transformation is that it’s available to everyone. No matter how messy or broken your life may seem, Jesus offers the opportunity to start anew. It’s not about fixing yourself before coming to Him; it’s about letting Him work in you, transforming your heart and mind.
If you’re curious about this journey or have questions about living as a new creation in Christ, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ask questions, seek understanding, and explore what it means to walk in this newness of life.
Jesus doesn’t just improve lives—He transforms them completely