The Key to Transformation: Do You Understand What You’re Reading?

The Key to Transformation: Do You Understand What You’re Reading?

By Dr. Josimar Salum

   One of the biggest challenges for anyone studying the Bible is understanding it. This is captured in Philip’s question to the Ethiopian man in Acts 8:30:

“Do you understand what you are reading?”

   All throughout history, how we interpret Scripture has shaped the Church—its beliefs, identity, and behavior. But many interpretations have been influenced by traditions, cultural values, personal experiences, and theological bias rather than Scripture itself.

   True understanding doesn’t just come from knowledge. It comes from a relationship with God—a love for Him and for others, demonstrated by how we live, love, and serve daily as followers of Jesus.

   Going Beyond Tradition

   The Holy Spirit still asks us: Do you truly understand what you believe? Have you tested your beliefs beyond what was handed down to you?

   Many believers eventually realize they’ve accepted myths or traditions that aren’t actually biblical. Much of what we call “truth” is often just human interpretation.

   Personally, I’ve questioned many of my own beliefs—and I’ve never feared that doing so would take me away from Jesus. In fact, seeking truth has drawn me closer to Him.

   This is where transformation begins—by having the courage to question, learn, and renew our thinking. As Romans 12:2 says:

“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so you can know God’s will—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

   What Blocks Transformation?

   Many resist change because they’re attached to routine or afraid to question tradition. Here are 10 common excuses that often prevent growth:

1. “This isn’t how we do things here.”

Many churches follow old patterns without asking if they please God or reflect true worship. In trying to attract people, we often end up entertaining them instead of transforming them.

2. “We tried that before, and it didn’t work.”

This mindset kills creativity. But the gospel is about new beginnings—God is always doing something new (Revelation 21:5).

3. “We have to follow the Bible.”

True—but whose interpretation are we following? If we keep doing the same things and seeing no change, we should re-examine our methods.

4. “I’ll pray about it.”

Prayer is vital—but this phrase often hides indecision or inaction.

5. “I’ll ask the pastor.”

The Bible says every believer is a priest (1 Peter 2:9). Leaders should equip, not control.

6. “Is this from the original Greek?”

Many ask this to avoid uncomfortable truths, even without understanding Greek—or even their own language.

7. “This might offend someone.”

Real change always challenges the comfortable. Jesus often offended the religious establishment.

8. “We have to follow the rules.”

Rules matter—but when they matter more than people, they block God’s work. Jesus always prioritized love and truth.

9. “That’s just your opinion.”

Dismissing insights from others shuts down healthy conversation. God can speak through anyone.

10. “This will cost too much.”

Fear of lack limits vision. But Jesus said if we seek His Kingdom first, everything else will follow (Matthew 6:33).

   Ministry Beyond the Church Walls

   Another major misunderstanding is the idea that only pastors are in ministry. The Bible teaches that every believer is a full-time minister—whether you’re a teacher, farmer, artist, engineer, a housewife.

   Jesus and His disciples did most of their ministry in homes, on streets, and in the workplace, not inside religious buildings. The early church transformed the world because they lived out the gospel everywhere, not just on Sundays.

   There is no biblical divide between “clergy” and “laity.” We are all called to bring God’s Kingdom into business, education, media, politics, arts, and family.

   How God Provides for His Mission

   God funds His Kingdom through the work of His people—not only through miracles. From the tabernacle to Solomon’s Temple, God used skilled workers and faithful givers.

   Proverbs 13:22 says, “The wealth of the wicked is stored up for the righteous.” But that wealth comes through diligence, wisdom, and righteous living, not by wishing for it.

   The marketplace is not secular. It’s a mission field.

   A New Kind of Church Is Rising

   Around the world, God is raising a new model of “church”—not focused on buildings or services, but on believers living the gospel in daily life. True transformation is happening as disciples of Jesus bring His Kingdom into homes, workplaces, and communities.

   This will continue until Acts 3:20–21 is fulfilled:

“Heaven must receive [Jesus] until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised through His holy prophets.”

   So the question remains:

Do you understand what you’re reading?

The answer will determine whether you stay in religion or step into real transformation.

   #ASONE