One of the most empowering truths in the New Testament is that we become new creations when we put our faith in Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
But what exactly does that mean? What are the old things that pass away, and what new things come? Let’s take a look at five key changes that occur as part of becoming a new creation:
New Birth - When we put our faith in Jesus, we experience a spiritual rebirth. Our sins are forgiven, the Holy Spirit enters our life, and we are born again. All our old sin, guilt, and shame died with Jesus on the cross. Life literally starts afresh in Christ.
New Identity - With our new birth comes a new identity. We are no longer miserable, rotten sinners but righteous saints, citizens of heaven, and beloved children of God.
New Community - As children of God, we are now part of the family of God. The old days of trying to fit in and be accepted are gone. We are fully accepted by God in Jesus and free to love and be loved with His love.
New Character - The Holy Spirit brings about a supernatural transformation of our hearts and minds. Old sinful desires and behaviors are replaced with a desire to please and obey God. As a result, we begin to experience and express God’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
New Purpose - Our new life in Christ also comes with a new purpose. We no longer need to live for ourselves but for Jesus, who died for us and rose again. We are now being sent out into the world every day as Ambassadors for Christ.
Let’s embrace our new life in Christ today
But what exactly does that mean? What are the old things that pass away, and what new things come? Let’s take a look at five key changes that occur as part of becoming a new creation:
New Birth - When we put our faith in Jesus, we experience a spiritual rebirth. Our sins are forgiven, the Holy Spirit enters our life, and we are born again. All our old sin, guilt, and shame died with Jesus on the cross. Life literally starts afresh in Christ.
New Identity - With our new birth comes a new identity. We are no longer miserable, rotten sinners but righteous saints, citizens of heaven, and beloved children of God.
New Community - As children of God, we are now part of the family of God. The old days of trying to fit in and be accepted are gone. We are fully accepted by God in Jesus and free to love and be loved with His love.
New Character - The Holy Spirit brings about a supernatural transformation of our hearts and minds. Old sinful desires and behaviors are replaced with a desire to please and obey God. As a result, we begin to experience and express God’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
New Purpose - Our new life in Christ also comes with a new purpose. We no longer need to live for ourselves but for Jesus, who died for us and rose again. We are now being sent out into the world every day as Ambassadors for Christ.
Let’s embrace our new life in Christ today
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