The word “become” carries profound weight in spiritual discourse, particularly within the Christian faith. It speaks not just of change, but of transformation, purpose, and the ongoing journey of faith. For those new to exploring Christian concepts, understanding what it means to become can unlock a deeper appreciation for the call to discipleship and personal growth. This guide aims to clarify this fundamental idea.
What Does “Become” Signify in a Spiritual Context?
In a spiritual sense, to become is to enter into a new state of being or identity, often implying a process of growth, refinement, and alignment with God’s will. It’s not merely about acquiring knowledge or performing rituals, but about an internal metamorphosis that reshapes one’s character, perspective, and actions. This transformation is initiated by faith in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The Bible frequently uses “become” to describe this profound change. For example, 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” Here, “become” is synonymous with being a “new creation” – a radical shift from one’s former self. It suggests an ongoing process rather than a single event, much like a seed “becomes” a tree through consistent nourishment and growth.
Becoming More Like Christ: The Goal of Discipleship
One of the central tenets of Christian faith is the call to become more like Jesus Christ. This process, often called sanctification, involves conforming our lives to his teachings and character. It’s a journey of imitation, where we strive to embody his love, humility, compassion, and righteousness. This isn’t achieved through self-effort alone, but through a dynamic relationship with God.
Romans 8:29 illuminates this purpose: “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” This verse indicates that God’s ultimate plan for believers is for them to become like Christ. This transformation touches every aspect of life – our thoughts, words, and deeds. It involves daily choices to surrender our will to God’s and to allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, refining us from the inside out. Read more about Sanctification
The Process of Becoming: Growth and Participation
The journey to become who God intends us to be is a lifelong process. It involves:
- Repentance: Turning away from sin and toward God.
- Faith: Trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation and guidance.
- Obedience: Following God’s commands and teachings.
- Community: Growing alongside other believers in the church.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Engaging in practices like prayer, Bible study, and worship.
This isn’t a passive process; it requires active participation and a willing heart. Philippians 2:12-13 reminds us: “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” While God works in us, we also have a role to play in diligently pursuing growth. To become is to embrace this partnership, allowing divine grace to continually mold us into the image of our Creator. It is a journey of ever-increasing glory, reflecting God’s goodness to the world.