11.February.24

Introduction

We are looking at the concepts of resurrection and transfiguration as described in (1 Corinthians 15:50-54). We are all seeking the greatest blessing we can receive; eternal life in heaven, living in the presence of our heavenly Father. However, Scripture reminds us that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. This tells us that we need a transformation, a change that prepares us for the kingdom of God.
So let’s delve deeper into this transformation and what it means for us.

The Sound of the Trumpet

The Bible often uses the imagery of a trumpet to signify key spiritual events. In this context, the sound of the trumpet is a metaphor indicating the moment when the resurrection and transformation will occur. However, not all heed this call. There are those who hear the trumpet but choose to ignore it (Jeremiah 6:17). This trumpet is God’s Word (Revelation 1:10, Ezekiel 3:17). When we hear the sound of the trumpet, we are called to change, to prepare ourselves for the coming transformation.

The Process of Glorification

Our journey towards becoming more Christ-like is the process of glorification (Romans 8:29-30). In this spiritual journey, we are being moulded into the image of Jesus. This transformative process, also known as the process of redemption (Ephesians 4:21-24), is a journey where our mortal, perishable body is slowly wasting away, but our inner self is being renewed, day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).

Three Aspects of Salvation

In understanding our spiritual journey, we can consider salvation from three perspectives:
1. The salvation of your soul, which is a gift from God that we receive by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8, 1 Peter 1:9).
2. The sanctification process that occurs as we live out our faith and follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, diligently working out our salvation with reverence and awe (Philippians 2:12, Ephesians 4:21).
3. The final resurrection and transfiguration, which will come to pass whether we’ve died or if we’re still alive (Romans 8:11, 1 Peter 1:6-7).

We Need to Experience Resurrection Before Receiving Transfiguration

The process of spiritual transformation requires us to die in Christ in order to be resurrected or transfigured (Romans 8:17-18, Philippians 3:10, 2 Corinthians 4:10). This often involves a period of testing, symbolically represented as a 40-day journey in the Bible, which we must endure before we can fully experience resurrection and transfiguration.
Death needs to happen before resurrection can happen, and resurrection needs to happen before transfiguration can happen. This is a process of spiritual renewal that requires believers to cast off their old sinful selves and embrace the Spirit of God.

Conclusion

Jean Giono’s book “The Man Who Planted Trees”, tells the story of a shepherd who consistently sows acorns in order to grow a forest. He stands out as an example of the perseverance and consistency required in faith. As we sow seeds of faith in our lives, let us also display such faithfulness and consistency. Let’s prepare ourselves for the glorious transformation that God has in store for us, and look forward to the day we will be transfigured.

AMEN.