Conclusion: Christ in me, the hope of glory

The Bible gives us a clear picture of the final transformation. John writes that when Christ appears, “we shall be like Him” (1 John 3:2), and immediately connects that hope with present purification (1 John 3:3). Paul likewise teaches that Christ will transform the bodies of His people to be like His glorious body (Philippians 3:20-21; see also 1 Corinthians 15:51-53). This completes the picture: Christ justifies, Christ transforms, and Christ finally glorifies. The character Christ forms in us is therefore not an alternative to the gospel. It is part of the gospel’s restoring work.

We have come full circle. The title of this book asks: What will you take to heaven? The answer is not your possessions. Not your achievements. Not your status. Not your reputation. Not your religious credentials. You cannot purchase eternity. Christ has already paid the price. The gift is offered freely.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

But the Christ who gives eternal life also gives a new life. He does not merely forgive the sinner. He transforms the sinner. He does not merely remove guilt. He begins restoring the image of God. He does not merely promise a place. He prepares a people. And that work is happening now.

So perhaps the most important question we can ask ourselves is not, “What will I take to heaven?” but, “What is Christ forming in me today?” If you see pride, surrender it. If you see bitterness, surrender it. If you see selfishness, surrender it. If you see dishonesty, surrender it. If you see impurity, surrender it. If you see unforgiveness, surrender it. If you see a desire for recognition, surrender it. If you see a heart that wants its own way, surrender it. Do not hide it from Christ. Bring it to Him. Because the hands that were nailed to the cross are not looking for reasons to reject the repentant sinner. They are reaching out to save. And the voice that says “Come to Me” is still speaking. Today. Right now. The invitation remains open.

And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.

Come to Christ. Remain in Christ. Walk with Christ. Let Christ change you. And when the journey is finished, may the character that has been formed through a lifetime of surrender testify to one simple truth: it was Christ in me. Not my goodness. Not my achievement. Not my strength. Christ.

Final reflection

Which question in this character audit should I bring honestly to Jesus today?

A closing prayer

Jesus, thank You that my hope rests in Your grace. Continue Your work in me, and lead me to the next faithful step. Amen.