Transformists vs. Conformists

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Rom. 12: 2

There are people of today who always desires to be someone else. They take fashions, trends, and way of living that is so popular. Sense of belongingness is defined by this attitude. They are afraid to be different. They feel a need to be always like some other people around them. These people are who we call CONFORMISTS.

It is transparent in our society that there is a remarkable pressure to conform. It is seen in many of both adults and young ones, though weight of this issue is more inclined to adolescence. This fact is supported by the reality that most of young people today are ruled by their low self-esteem and so they usually look for acceptance that they find in conforming to what the majority is doing. It re-affirms their self-worth. Furthermore, advertising plays significant position in complicating this present social condition.

Now this is the sad fact: conformity has grave dangers.
1. It may lead one to do things he knows is wrong.
2. Conformity the second time around is easier.
3. Conforming to ways of the world separates us from God (Jn. 2:15 – 17)
... Lust of the flesh or immorality
... Lust of the eyes or materialism
... Pride of life or arrogance

Man has all the means to overcome the world though. Instead conform, transform. Bear in mind that God’s endowed power is greater than anything else. The big world is just a small dot compare to God’s immeasurable supremacy. And upon uniting with Christ, one already is an extension of this authority. Direct and not tag along. Be a leader and not a follower. Remember that God makes us, His people, a head and not a tail. Power is with us when God is with us. So take the opportunity to lead. Be a TRANSFORMIST. This is possible through conversion (Ti. 3:5) and the involvement of the renewal of mind (Ro. 12:2). And this should continue through life (2Cor. 4:16).

Think about: Conformists are bound to superficial and shallow change and they are just a cheap imitation letting other people do their thinking of them. Transformists on the other hand, undergo real change and experiences true renewal. And now its up to you. Which would you choose?

Acknowledgment: Sermon by Rev. Eric Atienza, Sept. 20, 2009, Jesus For All Ministries, KKFI Seminar Hall, Manila.