A common misconception is that God's transformation of a person is a passive, miraculous overhaul that happens without their participation. This idea, however, overlooks the fundamental principle of free will that God has endowed to humanity. Scripture makes it clear that genuine change is not imposed but is initiated when an individual consciously surrenders their will to God. As Romans 12:1 urges, we are to actively offer ourselves as a "living sacrifice" as the means by which we are transformed.

This necessity of transformation is further clarified by considering the nature of Heaven. Heaven is a perfectly holy place, the dwelling of a holy God. Allowing unchanged, sinful humanity to enter would fundamentally compromise its perfect state. This brings us to the powerful story of the criminal on the cross, which is sometimes misunderstood. His last-minute plea—"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom"—was far more than a simple request for rescue. It was a profound act of surrender, containing all the elements of a transformed heart: repentance, fear of God, and faith in Christ's lordship. Jesus’s response, “today you will be with me in paradise,” (Luke 23:43) does not contradict the need for holiness but rather demonstrates it. The criminal was not admitted as he was; his heart was instantly renewed through faith, making him a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) and fit for paradise. Thus, his story powerfully illustrates that while salvation is by grace alone, it always results in a transformed heart—the only kind that can enter a perfect Heaven.

 

Free Will and Invitation: Revelation 3:20 demonstrates this partnership: "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me." God knocks, but we must open the door.

· The Call to Surrender: Romans 12:1-2 explicitly calls for the act of surrender you described: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This is not a passive, miraculous overhaul without our consent; it is an active process that begins with surrender.

Do not delay your surrendering: 2 Corinthians 6:2: "For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation."

Hebrews 3:7-8, 15: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts..."