Becoming like Jesus requires intentional discipleship and practice over time, it is not an overnight transformation.
Transformation is a joint effort between individuals and God, requiring intentional training and practice.
Deep dives
Transformative Power of Becoming Like Jesus
The podcast discusses the idea of becoming an apprentice of Jesus, with the goal of being with him, becoming like him, and doing what he did. The speaker emphasizes the importance of discipleship and the need for intentional training to fully embody the teachings of Jesus. He highlights the necessity of time and stages in the process of discipleship, emphasizing that transformation does not happen overnight. The speaker also explores the concept of transformation through practices, community, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Challenging Myths in Spiritual Formation
The podcast challenges two common myths in spiritual formation. The first myth is that simply knowing the Bible is enough for transformation. The speaker acknowledges the importance of understanding the Bible and biblical teachings but argues that transformation requires more than intellectual knowledge. The second myth is that transformation is solely dependent on God's work and requires no effort from individuals. The speaker emphasizes the necessity of a joint effort between individuals and God, emphasizing that transformation requires intentional discipleship and practice.
The Power of Practices and Community
The podcast highlights the role of practices and community in transformation. Practices such as reading the Bible, prayer, and Sabbath play a vital role in shaping one's character and orientation towards Jesus. The speaker emphasizes that transformation happens through intentional training and practice over time. Additionally, being in community with other apprentices of Jesus exposes and encourages growth, providing accountability and support. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit's role in transformation, urging listeners to prioritize the practice of abiding in Jesus.
The Possibility of Change and Transformation
The podcast affirms the possibility of change and transformation for individuals who feel stuck or distant from the life Jesus offers. The speaker encourages listeners to believe that they can experience transformation from the ground up as they commit to a lifelong journey of being with Jesus and becoming like him. He emphasizes the need for surrender and laying one's life before Jesus in order to recover humanity and align with God's transformative work.
Are we conforming to the world, or being transformed to become like Jesus? In this next installment of the Practicing the Way vision series, John Mark discusses the call of Jesus for His students to become like their master, as well as how teaching, practice, community, and the Holy Spirit combine to help us practice and live the way of Jesus.
Key Scripture Passages: Luke 6v39-40; 2 Corinthians 3v18, Romans 12v1-2; Matthew 5-7; Galatians 5v13-26;