Transformation | Week One

Main Idea 

Transformation is not about trying harder but turning fully toward Jesus in surrender. 

In 2026, we’re not hoping for change; we’re expecting transformation. And that starts when we stop asking God to improve our lives and start surrendering our lives to Him. 

Scripture Focus 

2 Corinthians 3:16–18 

“But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 

Key Observations: 

“Turn to the Lord” — Turning is surrender, not self-help. 

“The veil is taken away” — The obstacles fall when we give Christ full leadership. 

“Being transformed” — Real change is an ongoing Spirit-led process, not a one-time decision. 

“Ever-increasing glory” — God’s goal is not improvement but Christlikeness. 

Group Discussion:

Reflect: What are some areas where you’ve asked God to “help you do better” instead of “take full control”? 

Read 2 Corinthians 3:16–18 aloud. What part of this passage stood out most to you? Why? 

Discuss: 

What does “removing the veil” mean in your life right now? 

How is our culture’s obsession with self-improvement different from the gospel’s promise of transformation? 

What do you think keeps people from fully turning to Christ? 

Vision: 

What would it look like for our group to live with the expectation of transformation this year? 

What kind of stories might we tell by the end of 2026? 

Prayer Focus 

Begin the Year with Surrender. 

Have each person pray this simple prayer aloud or silently: 

“Jesus, I turn toward You today. Remove the veil from my heart. I give You leadership in this area: ______________. Transform me this year—not by my effort, but by Your Spirit.” 

Also, take a moment to thank God together for the real stories of transformation in 2025—salvations, baptisms, gospel responses, and personal breakthroughs. 

Response Challenge 

This week, live unveiled. 

Reflect daily: “Where am I trying to improve instead of surrendering?” 

Write down one area of life you want to turn over fully to Christ in 2026. 

Share it with your group or a trusted friend and ask them to check in on your journey. 

Begin the year by expecting transformation, not just hoping for it.