Genetically Altered DNA (pt.2)

October 17, 2008
Text: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Title: Genetically Altered DNA (pt2)

Thoughts:

[If you did not read “Genetically Altered DNA (pt.1) please do so before reading today’s devotion.] Yesterday, I wrote concerning God’s DNA (divine nature and attributes) alteration of the believer’s life. Once we were bound in our sins, but now God has made us His very own beautiful creation (v.9). But what was His purpose for all of this? Why would He invest so much in us?

As scientists work continuously to alter the DNA of plants, animals, and humans, they have a purpose. In all, their goal is to create disease-resistant, cancer-free, and more productive species. To accomplish this they take the ability of certain genes from various plants and animals and inject them into the weaker species. When it works, good plants become resistant to poisons, winter plants survive the summer and summer plants the winter, and strong animals produce more meat and milk faster. Whether you agree with it or not, the goal of the scientists is to create a new Eden. It is man’s pursuit of what God has already created.

On the spiritual side of the equation, God has the same agenda. No, He’s not literally trying to re-create Eden, but He is desiring to have an intimate relationship with every human being as He did with Adam in the beginning. He longs to have His people free from sin, sickness, and the other plagues of a fallen world.

So, here’s where we come in. As a part of Peter’s expression of our DNA (a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people for God’s own possession), he gives in us our purpose. The latter part v.9 says we are to “proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light.” God has called us to be a part of what He is doing. Our job is to spread the news of how our lives have changed!

Who wouldn’t want to live in a land free of sin, sickness, and the plague of evil?! God can alter DNA’s through His Son Jesus Christ. But we, as examples of His glorious process, must share the excellencies of the One who has called us out of a life plagued with sin and into a marvelous relationship with Him.

Application:

In yesterday’s devotion I asked you to write a paragraph explaining how God has changed your DNA. Prayerfully consider someone you can share your story with in the next few days. Write their name somewhere you can see.

What are some ways that you can become more intentional about sharing “the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light”?

Would you love to live in a world free of sin, sickness, and evil? Then begin to pray that God’s Kingdom would be established on earth as it is in heaven.

Prayer:

Father,

I see Your plan in salvation. As a scientist longs to create a perfect plant and a perfect world, You desperately long to have the beautiful relationship with humanity as You did in the beginning. I see today that I am a part of that process. My life should bear a glorious fruit that speaks of Your marvelous plan. When I do, others begin to see the excellencies of the One who changes lives. May You lead me to someone today and embolden me to share of Your love and plan in Christ Jesus.

In Jesus’ name. Amen

Genetically Altered DNA (pt.1)

October 16, 2008
Text: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Title: Genetically Altered DNA (pt.)

Thoughts:

Scientists are ever seeking to develop new ideas and techniques. They are continually probing the depths of knowledge, ability, and technology to learn more about this world in which we live.  While there is an aspect of research that many find to be unethical and controversial, a topic that will not be discussed here, scientists have taught us a lot about the intricate process of God’s creation.

One of the areas of research that has been a blessing and a curse is DNA. The DNA of any organism is, in essence, its blueprint. It describes its individual makeup in detail. It is now widely-known and used throughout life. From forensics to farming, DNA has rushed to the forefront of science. It has ushered in cloning, genetically altered plants, and a variety of other things that would probably scare the average individual.

So, what does DNA have to do with 1 Peter 2:9-10? Well, as I read the words of v.9, I can’t help but imagine God in His heavenly laboratory altering the genes and DNA of those who believe in Him. It’s almost like He completely altered our DNA. A people that “once were not a people” are now “the people of God” (v.10). This new breed is said to be “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession.” This is what I like to call God’s DNA (Divine Nature and Attributes). For once we place our faith in Christ Jesus, He makes a new creation out of us. The old things are passed away and all things are made new (2 Cor. 5:17).

When I consider my past, the words that Peter writes about me are NOTHING like me. In Hawaiian terminology, I was pilau (rotten, stink) and kolohe (rascal, trouble). While some would argue I still am, I am nothing like I used to be. Thank God for His grace that took my sinful nature, spiritually altered my DNA, and has placed within me His divine nature and attributes. I am “chosen, a priest, holy, and God’s very own.” Now, that is something that science will never be able to do!

Application:

As far as science can go, it will never be able to do what Christ has done for us. If you were to describe what God has done for you in one paragraph, what would you say? (Please take a moment to do this…it has a purpose for tomorrow’s devo.)

Since you placed your faith in Jesus Christ, how have you noticed the DNA (divine nature and attributes) change you? (attitude, actions, character, etc.)

Many have a hard time believing Jesus Christ, and our faith in Him, can really change us. Do you struggle with this?

Prayer:

Father,

I thank You for Your grace and mercy. What a difference You have made in my life. Though I have more altering that needs to take place, You have changed me from what I used to be. More than that, You have spoken incredible things about me. I am “chosen by You, Your holy priest, holy before You, and Your very own child!” That’s nothing like I used to be. I ask that You would help me to live as the person You have said I am today. I want my new DNA to impact the lives of those around me in an eternal way.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.