Not Conformed, But Transformed

by Bryan Gibson

April 18, 2008

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2).

According to the above passage, Christians should be different from the world. Let’s look at some areas in which Christians should be different.

In speech.

“…Putting away lying, each one speak truth with his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25).

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth” (Ephesians 4:29).

“Let all…evil speaking be put away from you…” (Ephesians 4:31).

“…there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks (Ephesians 5:4).

“sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you” (Titus 2:8).

In the way they dress.

“Do not let your adornment be merely outward; arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel; rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves…” (1 Peter 3:3-5).

“In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works” (1 Timothy 2:9-10).

In temperament.

“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

“Repay no one evil for evil…do not avenge yourselves...give place to wrath” (Romans 12:17, 19).

In what they allow into their minds.

“Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23).

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

In their attitude toward the things of this life.

“…beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses’” (Luke 12:15).

“I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” (Philippians 4:11).

“But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness” (1 Timothy 6:9-11).

In their attitude toward marriage.

“Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4).

“What God has joined together, let not man separate...whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery (Matthew 19:6, 9).

Can you think of any others? Email us and let us know.