The Transforming Power of Christ

by Erin Pickering, Adult Ministry Director

Chapter 1 of Pastor Jeff’’s book, Your Greatest Adventure opens with this: the Christian life isn’t about self-improvement—it’s about complete transformation. It's not a quick fix or surface-level upgrade, but a total renewal that begins the moment you say “yes” to Jesus.

A Radical Makeover

Think of those makeover shows where something old and broken is completely transformed—like a house with cracked walls and worn floors turned into a beautiful, welcoming home. That’s the kind of radical change God wants to do in us. He doesn’t just patch up our mistakes or gloss over our brokenness—He begins again with something brand new.

More Than a Touch-Up

Following Jesus means more than cleaning up your act. It’s not behavior modification—it’s heart renovation. God’s work in you is deep, thorough, and life-changing. You’re not just “better behaved,” you’re reborn. That’s the power of the Gospel: it meets us where we are and transforms us from the inside out.

Born Again in Christ

To be “born again” means starting fresh—not just with a new mindset, but with a new heart. When you place your faith in Jesus, your identity changes. You are no longer defined by your past, your failures, or what others say about you. You are a child of God, made new by His grace.

That new identity brings freedom—freedom from shame, from striving, and from the pressure to perform. You are not who you were. In Christ, you are a new creation.

Surrender and Trust

The best part? This transformation isn’t something you have to manufacture. You don’t have to fix yourself or figure it all out. Your role is simple: surrender and trust. Let God do what only He can do. As you walk with Him daily, He shapes your heart, your thoughts, and your purpose.

Now What?

  • Reflect: Where in your life do you need renewal?

  • Pray: Ask God to begin (or continue) His transforming work in you.

  • Read: Start with Chapter 1 of Your Greatest Adventure and take it one step at a time.

  • Connect: Don’t walk this journey alone. Reach out to someone who can encourage you and walk with you.

You don’t have to stay stuck in who you were. With Jesus, a brand-new life is already unfolding.

FaithLowCountry Community Church