This is an advertisement that pops up on smartphone screens. The products sold are for skin protection, hydration, and cleansing. Is it possible to change skin by self-effort? People with an obsession for fair skin invest in such creams and even surgeries. Prophet Jeremiah writes: Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard his spots? (Jeremiah 13:23) Jeremiah writes about the inner nature of humans and the need for divine nature.
Sinful nature: A leopard cannot change its spots, as it is natural. A leopard can’t change its spots because it has either the capacity or the skills to do it. Jeremiah reminded the Children of Israel that they cannot change their sinful nature. Self-reform cannot help them. There is a need for repentance, and trust God to do the miracle that is not possible by human efforts. All descendants of Adam and Eve are sinners. Sinfulness is their very nature and essence. As gravity pulls all things towards the earth, human behaviour gravitates towards sin.
Right or wrong question: Can an Ethiopian change his skin? No, impossible. Can the Ethiopian skin be changed? Yes. God Almighty can change a person’s essence and nature. Human religions, traditions, rituals, chants, and sacrifices can never transform a person. Paul writes that humans could become a new creation only in Christ Jesus.
New Creation: If a person repents, forsakes sins, receives the Lord Jesus Christ in faith, and becomes a child of God. (John 1:12) Such a person is described as a new one in Christ—those who are in Christ as a new creation. The old things have passed away, and all things have become new. (II Corinthians 5:17) It is putting off the evil, wicked, and sinful behaviours, and putting on the new righteous attitudes. (Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-10) It is putting off the wretched rags of self-righteousness and wearing the robe of righteousness and the garment of salvation and praise. (Isaiah 64:6; 61:10,3P) Disciples are granted to be partakers of the divine nature and power in Christ. (I Peter 1:3-4)
Am I a transformed person in Christ Jesus?