Before Optimus Prime... Series

* "Transformers" = "more than meets the eye"

* Concept of transformation: a complete change; to change into another form (inward and outward) which, under the power of God, will find expression in character and conduct

* 2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 12:2; 2 Cor. 3:18

* The man who wrote more about transformation than anyone else was Paul: he experienced it first-hand

* From Saul's transformation we learn several truths about the transformation we are to experience in our lives...

1. Transformation is initiated by God (v. 3)

* Saul's intent as he traveled down the Damascus Road vs. God's intent

* God always takes the initiative in our salvation and transformation

- John 6:44

- 2 Cor. 4:6

* Amazing thought: God seeks us...wants us...desires us (1 John 4:19)

* If God did not initiate our transformation, we would be hopelessly lost (Rom. 3:10-11)

2. Conviction must precede transformation (v. 4)

* Conviction: a sense of guilt and shame leading to repentance

* The words of Christ in verse 4 are a rebuke intended to bring that sense of guilt and shame and repentance to Saul

* Saul's sin was primarily against God; our sin is first and foremost against God, hence the need to be convicted before transformation can occur

* Example: David (Psalm 51:4)

* The Holy Spirit's job of conviction: John 16:8

3. Transformation occurs when we accept Christ as Lord (v. 5)

* How Saul addressed Christ: "Lord"

* A lot occurs in this verse: the power of salvation and grace

* 1 Timothy 1:13-16

* Our transformation begins when Christ is given the reigns of our lives so that he can rule over us and out power sin

* For Saul, Christ was his Savior AND Lord, not his Savior OR Lord (explain difference...)

4. Our actions prove that we have been transformed (v. 6-31)

* Transformation is a process (Phil. 2:12) = we have been transformed; we are being transformed; we will be transformed

* Inward transformation leads to outward transformation

* Saul's example...

A. Transformation leads to a vibrant prayer life (v. 10-12)

B. Transformation leads to a servant's heart (v. 13-17a)

C. Transformation leads to a Spirit-filled life (v. 17b)

D. Transformation leads to fellowship with other believers (v. 18-19)

E. Transformation leads to sharing the Gospel (v. 20-30)

CONCLUSION

Verse 31: the result of transformation