Conform vs Transform

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:1–2—NKJV)

The words conform and transform sound somewhat the same, but there is a striking difference in meaning, not always evident in English. This subtle difference is magnified in the Scriptures.

In English, conform means to comply, to act in accord or harmony with a standard, acquiescence, agreement; to correspond in form or character.

Transform means to change in form, appearance, or structure; metamorphose; to change in condition, nature, or character; convert.

Conformity is more concerned with your relationship to standards whereas transform is concerned with the standards by which you relate.