The Two Mountain Peaks: ‘Be Born Again’ and ‘The Resurrection’
What do you think is the most important teaching and the most important event in the Bible? Imagine all the teachings of Scripture lined up like a mountain range. At the very peak would be John 3:16 - the concept of being born again. And if we lined up all the events in the Bible, the summit would undoubtedly be the resurrection. Let’s explore these two mountain peaks and how they can transform our lives.
The Power of Personal Transformation
Personal transformation is not just turning over a new leaf but experiencing a new birth. Jesus didn't come to give us a set of rules to follow; he came to completely reconstruct our souls. This idea of transformation is deeply ingrained in our culture - just look at how many movies are about redemption!
There's something in us that craves the concept that we could be a person that could be changed. The hope of transformation has been placed into our DNA by God.
This transformation was prophesied long before Jesus came. In Ezekiel 36:26-27, God promised:
"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove from you the heart of stone, and I will give you a heart of flesh. I will put my spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws."
When we say yes to Jesus, something actually happens inside us. God changes us from the inside out, putting his very Spirit within us.
A New Relationship, Not Just a New Religion
Personal transformation is not just finding a new religion but entering a new relationship. Jesus didn't come to give us more rituals or rules. He came to be the way to salvation himself.
"Jesus said, 'I am the way, the truth and the life. And no one comes to the Father except through me'” (John 14:6).
The way is a person, and with that person we can have a relationship, a personal friendship.
In the Old Testament, only the high priest could enter God's presence once a year. Jesus changed all that. When he died on the cross, the curtain in the temple was torn in two, symbolizing that we now have direct access to God.
Jesus even said in John 15:15, "I no longer call you servants... Instead, I have called you friends." This is the transformation Jesus invites everyone to experience - from servants to friends of God.
A New Story, Not Just a New Chapter
Personal transformation is not just beginning a new chapter in life but writing a whole new story. When Jesus rose from the dead on that first Easter morning, everything changed for his disciples. They went from hiding in fear to boldly proclaiming the good news of resurrection.
Jesus prayed for His followers in John 17:15-18:
"I'm not asking that you take them out of the world, but that you guard them from the evil one... In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world, now I give them a mission in the world."
Our new life in Christ isn't about escaping the world but about finding our mission within it. We're called to use our gifts and talents to make a difference for God's kingdom.
Embracing Your Transformation
Recognize your need for new birth: Have you experienced the inner transformation that comes from saying yes to Jesus?
Cultivate your relationship with God: Spend time daily in prayer and Bible reading to grow your friendship with Jesus.
Discover your mission: Ask God to reveal how you can use your unique gifts to serve others and share His love.
Share your story: Tell others about how Jesus has transformed your life - your testimony is powerful!
Live with urgency: None of us knows how much time we have. Make the most of every opportunity to live for Christ and impact others.
If you've never committed your life to Jesus before, why not do it today? You can pray this simple prayer:
"Today is the day for my personal transformation. Thank you, Jesus, for giving your life for me on the cross. Please forgive me of all my sins. Today I ask you to come into my life as my Savior and as the leader of my life. From this day forward, I will live my life for you. I know that you have a mission for my life, so give me the wisdom to follow your dreams for my life. Thank you for coming into my heart today. In Jesus' name, Amen."
Remember, the resurrection power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to transform your life today. Will you embrace it?
Reflection:
1. How has your life been transformed since accepting Jesus as your Savior?
2. In what ways do you experience a personal relationship with Jesus in your daily life?
3. How can you use your gifts and talents to fulfill God's mission for your life?
4. Are there areas in your life where you need to experience a "new birth" or transformation?
Application:
Take time this week to reflect on your relationship with Jesus. Identify one area where you can deepen your connection with him or use your gifts to serve others. Make a specific plan to act on this insight, whether it's dedicating more time to prayer, serving in a ministry, or sharing your faith with someone.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of new life through your death and resurrection. Help me to fully embrace the transformation you offer and to live as a new creation in you. Guide me in using my gifts to fulfill your mission and to share your love with others. Strengthen my relationship with you daily and help me to trust in your plans for my life. In your name, I pray. Amen.
