“If we’re going to really do the will of God, something must change in our lives” – Pastor Mensa Otabil

Introduction

Pastor Mensa Otabil’s fifth installment of his “Living for God” series, titled Changed Into His Likeness, draws on the theme of transformation, focusing on how believers are called to be transformed into the image of Christ. 

Pastor Otabil uses 2 Corinthians 3:18 to illustrate this powerful process of spiritual growth, highlighting the journey from infancy in faith to a mature likeness of Christ.

In his message, he breaks down the transformative power of God’s Word and its ability to mold believers into His likeness.

The Call to Transformation

Pastor Otabil emphasizes that every believer is called to undergo transformation. He explains, “If we’re going to live for God, if we’re going to really do the will of God, something must change in our lives.” This transformation, however, is not something we accomplish on our own. 

He points out that “we are being transformed” — a passive process where God, not us, is the one who does the work of change. Pastor Otabil describes this transformation using the Greek term “metamorpho,” which means a complete change of form, much like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly.

Transformation Through the Word of God

Pastor Otabil stresses that God’s Word is His primary instrument for this transformation. He says, “We do not use the Word of God to transform ourselves. God uses His Word to transform us.” 

This transformation goes beyond simply memorizing scripture; it involves applying biblical principles to our lives, allowing God to renew our thinking and attitudes through His Word. “The Word of God transforming you goes beyond memorization into applying what it says into your mind, into your thinking so that you become a brand new person,” he notes.

Into the Same Image

One of the key phrases Pastor Otabil explores is “into the same image.” He explains that this transformation means we are being changed to reflect the image of Christ, not just becoming more moral or religious. The phrase “into” signifies movement and progress. 

He warns that knowing scripture intellectually without applying it does not lead to true transformation. He challenges believers to seek real change, saying, “You can’t read the Word of God and say, oh, I know the Bible… there has to be movement.” True transformation manifests in our daily lives as we act, think, and live more like Jesus.

From Glory to Glory

Transformation in Christ, Pastor Otabil explains, is a process of moving “from glory to glory.” As we are changed, we display the glory of Christ in our lives, showcasing the work of God within us. 

He explains that this change “brings us into glory,” empowering us to reveal God’s character and love. According to Pastor Otabil, the process of transformation allows each believer to “manifest the glory of Christ,” becoming a living testimony of God’s work.

Conclusion

Pastor Otabil’s message reminds believers of the profound journey of transformation that God invites us to through Christ. 

This transformation is a continual process, moving us “from glory to glory” as we grow closer to the image of Christ. 

Pastor Otabil concludes by emphasizing that true transformation brings believers into deeper alignment with Christ’s character and likeness.