One young man asked a Bible Teacher: Are you a Reformed Theologian? He smiled and said: “I am a transformed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Many people wish to know about doctrines, differences in beliefs, and denominations. There could be three kinds of Christians.
Informed: Many people are acquainted with the Bible. A few of them could have studied as a school discipline or literature student. Some of them are those born in Christian homes and read the bible as a habit. Since they do not read with open minds and open hearts, they may not find the truth. Paul writes when the Scripture is read, they have a veil in their hearts, that they cannot understand. (II Corinthians 3:15-17)
Reformed: Some consider themselves as reformed, better than others. Sadly, for them, spiritual pride becomes a great hindrance. Like Pharisees and Sadducees, they demean other common people. In a Parable the Lord taught how a Pharisee considers himself better than the common man. Without knowing or ascertaining he portrays the other person as a robber, evildoer, or adulterer. (Luke 18:9-14) Pharisees were careful about what they believed but missed in their behavior like modern-day Christians who are dogmatic about their doctrines. Like Pharisees neglected mercy, justice, and faith, today’s disciples miss the love, sacrifice, and joy of serving the Lord in fellowship with other saints. (Matthew 23:23) Sadly, mostly they try to lead a holy life by their own efforts and not by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. The result is being legalistic and judgmental in attitude.
Transformed: Disciples are those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for their forgiveness of sins, salvation, and eternal life. They offer their bodies as living sacrifices, their mind is renewed by His Word, and refuse to live according to the trends and traditions of the world. (Romans 12:1,2) Being overcomers of body, world, death, and Satan, they lead a victorious fruitful life. They celebrate the unity of the Body of Christ and love all people of God irrespective of denomination, as no denomination is perfect. (John 17:21)
Am I a transformed disciple?