It is interesting that we as Americans are all about individual freedoms and choice. However, most of us would rather conform to our environment rather than stand out as being different. There are many reasons for this conformity. Some of us come from cultures that the sense of community is built on conformity, so peace at any cost is very important. For those individuals, disagreement is perceived as disunity. Others are so approval driven that they cannot see their lives without others’ acceptance, hence they conform to other people’s wishes. There are those who misunderstand the concept of Biblical unity and believe conformity and agreement on everything are the only answer to true unity. Others have been taught to imitate their leaders which has translated into passively conforming to the views and the desires of their leaders.
Conformity is tricky, and it is easier to preach about than to live it out. We are very clear and adamant when we see our teenagers conforming to the values of their friends, but we have a hard time seeing our actions. Sometimes we do the same thing in our circles.
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. Romans 8:29
The above word “conform”is Strong’s G4832 which is “sýmmorphos” in Greek, and it means: jointly formed, i.e. (figuratively) similar:—conformed to, fashioned like unto.
G4832 – describes what is the essence in character and thus complete or durable, not merely a form or outline
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
The above word “conform” is Strong’s G4964 which is “sysch?matiz?” in Greek, and it means:to conform one’s self (i.e. one’s mind and character) to another’s pattern, (fashion one’s self according to).
G4964 – to shape one thing like another and describes what is transitory, changeable, and unstable
The word “conform” is used in two different variations in the New Testament. In Romans 8:29, Paul speaks about us being conformed to the image of Christ. The word used for that type of conformity comes from Greek G4832. This conformity is about an internal change including the character. It= is about oneness with Christ, and the transformation that happens inside out.
In Romans 12:2, Paul uses the word “conform” to describe those who work on trying to change themselves to look like their environment. It is about the self-effort of an individual trying to make something happen. Many times, we use this scripture, in the context of not being worldly. However, we can do the same thing in our Christian circles and focus on conforming to others around us.
I will continue with this subject in the next devotional.
