Rom. 8:29
A familiar slogan for young basketball lovers is “I wanna be like Mike.” Michael Jordan brought a new element to the game of basketball with his expertise and grace. His personality only enhanced his skill at the game. People all across the nation were charmed by him even when they did not like the team for which he played. The book of Acts tells us that something similar took place early in the history of the church. When the enemies of God called the believers “Christians” at the Antioch church they meant it to be a term of derision. The Christians, however, happily accepted the term with pride. “Christian” means “to be like Christ.” This is God’s will for us . . . that we be transformed into the image of His Son. (Rom. 8:29) That is the will of those who truly love Him. To be holy even as He is holy. (1 Pet 1:16) “I wanna be like Jesus.”
Dr. Gayle Woods
Rom 6:11-14 (11)
Joseph M. Stowell relates,” Some time ago, I was chatting with a man who consults with some of the largest U.S. companies about their quality control. Because ministry is a form of human quality control, I thought I’d ask him for some insights.
“He said, “In quality control, we are not concerned about the product.” I was surprised.
“But then he went on to say, “We are concerned about the process. If the process is right, the product is guaranteed.”
“How relevant to our Christianity.
“We tend to be more oriented to the “product” of our faith than the process.
“As American Christians, we tend to desire and demand products of righteousness, but give little attention to the process.” (Bible Illustrator)
The conversion from death (a sinful life) to life (a life committed to following Jesus Christ) is dramatic. This process is at times called “growth in grace” or “sanctification” (not to be confused with entire sanctification). From the time we are saved by the grace of God initial holiness is begun. We turn our backs on sin and begin to do our best to live a life that is always pleasing to God. To do this we follow the instructions of God’s Word carefully and endeavor to become more sensitive to the guiding voice of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Gayle Woods
