Romans 8:28-30; 2 Corinthians 3:18
Introduction:
1. The next segment in our series covers the growth process of the new life in Christ.
2. This lesson discusses the overarching goal of the process, the real purpose of discipleship which is continual transformation into the image of Christ.
Discussion:
I. God’s Image Imparted
A. To grasp the glory of Christ’s redemptive work, we return to the garden again.
B. Genesis 1:26-28 shows that we exist to bear the image and likeness of our Creator.
C. This reality makes us unique from every other created being (Genesis 9:5-6).
II. God’s Image Marred by Sin
A. Suddenly, after giving in to temptation, humanity was inclined to deceit (hiding from God; Genesis 3:8-10), passing blame (Genesis 3:11-13), and ever-increasing sinful desires.
B. The earth was cursed, humanity was driven from the tree of life (3:22-24), and God’s image was further marred as shown by increasing depravity (Genesis 4:16-24; 6:5-7).
III. Conforming to God’s Image
A. Scripture reveals God’s work to restore His image in humanity (Genesis 3:15).
B. Romans 8 encapsulates this in a way much akin to the sun coming out from behind the storm cloud of the helplessly sinful condition described in Romans 7.
1. After describing freedom from sin in Christ (1-11) and sonship by adoption rather than slavery to sin (12-17), he addressed the redemption of creation (18-27).
2. God’s intent for the redeemed is conformity to Christ’s image (8:28-30; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:3), and brotherhood with Him (8:29; Hebrews 2:10-13).
C. This transformation requires continually beholding the glory of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Conclusion:
1. Restoring God’s image in us by conforming to the image of Christ is the whole thing.
2. We must “…grow up in all things into Him who is the head, Christ…” (Ephesians 4:11-16).
3. This transformation will be full and complete in eternity (Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:1-3).
Further Food for Thought
1. Have you ever lost the forest for the trees in your quest for God’s will in Scripture?
2. Does it help you as much as it does me to reset and be reminded of the primary aim?
3. How do you think keeping this framework in front of us will enhance Bible study?
4. How should knowing we never arrive until eternity impact our spiritual motivation?