A Work in Process
MAY 16, 2023

For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Romans 8:29

Recommended Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17
A portrait or sculpted bust is ideally created with the subject in the studio. If that is not possible, a photograph of the subject is needed. In either case, an image of the subject—in person or in a photo—is required in order to create a 2D (portrait) or 3D (bust) likeness.

The ultimate goal of the Christian’s salvation experience is to be “conformed to the image of [God’s] Son,” Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29). Therefore, we are the blank canvas or the lump of marble or clay, and Jesus is the “image” to which we are being conformed. Not a physical conformity but a spiritual conformity. The process begins with the new birth (John 3:1-3). Paul expands on the idea by saying in Christ you are a “new creation”—the old you has “passed away,” and “the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV).

God, the Artist, is in no hurry. In fact, our conformity to Christ is a lifelong process, being completed when we see Him face-to-face. Be patient! You are a work in process.

The goal of sanctification is to be conformed to Christ’s image… not be self-satisfied.
John MacArthur