The Transforming Mirror: Reflecting God's Glory 2 Corinthians 3:18
Introduction:
In the corridors of 2 Corinthians 3:18, the Apostle Paul unveils a profound truth—the transformative power of beholding God's glory. Today, let's journey into this passage and explore how, as believers, we are continually transformed by the truth we behold.
Point 1: Beholding the Glory of the Lord
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT) "So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image."
The removal of the veil symbolises our access to God's glory through Christ. As we behold His glory, we are not passive observers but active participants—reflecting His image. The Spirit, at work within us, orchestrates this transformation.
C.S. Lewis beautifully captures this concept, "Next to the Blessed Sacrament itself, your neighbour is the holiest object presented to your senses."
Romans 12:2 (NLT) "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think."
Point 2: The Mirror of God's Word
James 1:23-25 (NLT) "For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."
God's Word serves as a mirror, reflecting not just our external appearance but the state of our hearts. Transformation comes not just from seeing but from obeying and applying the truth revealed in the mirror of Scripture.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of Scripture, "The Bible is not only a book which was once spoken, but a book which is now speaking."
Psalm 119:105 (NLT) "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path."
Point 3: Unveiled Faces and Transformative Freedom
2 Corinthians 3:16-17 (NLT) "But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
Turning to the Lord removes the veil, bringing freedom through the Spirit's presence. The transformative journey involves not only beholding God's glory but also experiencing the liberty that comes from being in His presence.
Charles Spurgeon reflects on this freedom, "The greatest freedom we can enjoy is freedom from sin, condemnation, and the power of evil."
Galatians 5:1 (NLT) "So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law."
Conclusion: Reflecting His Glory in Freedom
As we gaze into the mirror of God's glory, let us embrace the transformative process. May the unveiled faces reflect the glory of the Lord, and may the freedom found in His presence empower us to live transformed lives.
Application:
Regularly spend intentional time in prayer and Scripture, seeking to behold and reflect God's glory in your daily life.
Call to Action:
Identify an aspect of your life where transformation is needed. Commit to applying God's truth to that area and invite the Holy Spirit to bring about lasting change.
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
