God wants you to be jointly formed into the image of Jesus Christ. But what is the image of Jesus Christ we are to conform to? Is it physical, moral, or spiritual? To answer the question, let’s use the law of first mention where the word “image” is first used. In Gen 1:27 says So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. The word “image” in that scripture is the word “tseh'-lem” and it means to be a representative figure, a model or resemblance. Since God is Spirit (John 4:24), then it goes without saying that those created in His image will be created in His Spiritual image first. God created the spiritual nature of humans first – in His spiritual image then created the physical body of Adam later in Gen 2:7. So, when the word image is used, it is referring to the spiritual nature first and foremost.

So, Rom 8:29 is saying God destined us from the beginning to share the likeness or the image of His son. To share in or conform to the spiritual image of Jesus requires us to be born again. The moment you are born again, the Spirit of Christ comes into you. His spiritual image became yours. So, now you are conformed to the spiritual image of Jesus Christ. This is the reason why the scripture says in 1 John 4:17 that because as He is, so are we in this world. Right now, you are 100% like Jesus in your spirit. This is the beginning of your conformity to the image of Jesus Christ.

Affirmation: I am thankful Father that I am already conformed to the image of Jesus Christ the very moment I became born again. I choose by your grace to allow this reality to make me an effective witness of the Lord, dispensing the fragrance of His grace everywhere I go. So, help me God.