12:2 Do not be conformed3 to this present world,4 but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may test and approve5 what is the will of God—what is good and well-pleasing and perfect.
tn Although συσχηματίζεσθε (suschēmatizesthe) could be either a passive or middle, the passive is more likely since it would otherwise have to be a direct middle (“conform yourselves”) and, as such, would be quite rare for NT Greek. It is very telling that being “conformed” to the present world is viewed as a passive notion, for it may suggest that it happens, in part, subconsciously. At the same time, the passive could well be a “permissive passive,” suggesting that there may be some consciousness of the conformity taking place. Most likely, it is a combination of both.
Craig L. Blomberg’s study meticulously re-examines John’s Gospel, revealing its historical reliability. Using fresh criteria, it uncovers compelling evidence, challenging long-held assumptions and affirming John’s account of Jesus.