The Bible describes transformation as a profound, inner change that happens when a person becomes a Christian. This means moving from a life that conforms to the world to one that pleases God through the renewal of the mind. Moreover, this is not self-improvement, but a spiritual renewal initiated by God through the Holy Spirit. As a result, it creates a new creation that reflects Christ’s image and bears spiritual fruit. 

The process of transformation

• New Creation: When a person accepts Christ, they are considered a “new creation”. Their old self passes away and a new self emerges (2 Corinthians 5:17). 
• Renewing of the Mind: Transformation is driven by a renewal of the mind. This means a fundamental change in how one thinks, which then leads to changed actions (Romans 12:2). 
• The Holy Spirit’s role: This change is empowered by the Holy Spirit living within the believer. The Spirit guides and enables them to live a new life (Romans 8:9). 
• Putting off the old, putting on the new: Believers are called to actively “put off” old behaviors and “put on” new, Christ-like characteristics such as kindness, love, and forgiveness. For example, see Ephesians 4:22-24 and Colossians 3:9-14. 
• A lifelong process: Transformation is a lifelong journey of growing in the knowledge of God and becoming more like Christ. There is the assurance that God will complete the work He began (Philippians 1:6, 1 Peter 1:23). 

What transformation looks like

• New identity: Believers are no longer defined by their past but by their new identity in Christ. 
• New actions: Transformation is evidenced by a life that bears good works and spiritual fruit. 
• New perspective: A transformed mind can better discern God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will. 
• Changed nature: The core of one’s being is changed. This leads to a life that reflects the glory of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).