Before following Jesus, we developed some bad habits or practices that are displeasing to God, commonly called “sin.” However, the good news is that giving your life to Christ makes you a new creation and no longer a slave to sin’s hold.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the Apostle Paul speaks about the transformation that takes place when we become new creations by placing faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. It states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse emphasizes that through faith in Jesus Christ, we can experience a fundamental change in our lives, with the old self passing away and the new self emerging. This transformation happens by the power of the Holy Spirit and is essential for our salvation and allows us to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Historical Background:
In ancient times, people believed that the physical body and the spiritual self were two distinct entities. The idea of becoming a new creation was a familiar concept, but it was often achieved through intense ascetic practices or mysticism. Paul’s message of becoming a new creation through faith in Jesus Christ was radical and inclusive, as it offered salvation to all people who placed their faith in Jesus Christ, regardless of their ethnicity, social status, or religious background.
The Message of 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore” This word connects this verse to the previous verses where Paul talks about how our earthly bodies are temporary and how we long for our eternal home in heaven. He then says that because of this, we should live in a way that pleases God.
“If anyone is in Christ” This phrase emphasizes the importance of being united with Christ through faith. It highlights that this transformation can only occur through faith in Jesus Christ.
“The new creation has come” This phrase refers to the radical transformation that occurs when we become new creations in Christ. It is a complete overhaul of our spiritual identity, a change from our old self to a new self that is marked by righteousness and obedience to God.
“The old has gone, the new is here” This phrase emphasizes the finality and completeness of the transformation that occurs when we become new creations in Christ. It means that the old self, characterized by sin and disobedience, has passed away, and the new self, marked by righteousness and obedience to God, has emerged.
As new creations in Christ, we have the power to overcome sin and temptation and live a life that reflects our new identity in Christ. This new identity is marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, the fruits of the Holy Spirit working in our lives.
Consider:
New Life, New Hope
There was a man named John who, for most of his adult life, struggled with alcoholism. One day, he heard about the love of Jesus Christ and decided to give his life to Him.
As he started living with a new purpose, he noticed that he was changing in ways he never imagined. He was more patient, kind, and loving towards others. The old habits that once controlled him no longer had power over him.
One day, while walking down the street, he saw an old acquaintance who used to be his drinking buddy. The friend tried to convince John to come out and drink with him, but John declined. His friend was surprised and asked what caused the change in him.
John smiled and said, “I’m a new creation in Christ Jesus. The old has gone, and the new is here. I can’t explain it, but I know I am not the person I used to be.”
Just like John, when we place our faith in Jesus Christ, we become new creations with a new identity and purpose. Our old self no longer binds us, but we are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit to live a life that honors God.
Applying His Word to Life:
- How can you actively embrace your new identity in Christ and let go of your old way of life?
- What steps can you take to share the good news of salvation with others as a new creation in Christ?
- In what ways has your life already been transformed since becoming a new creation in Christ, and how can you continue to grow in your faith and relationship with God?
Lesson Topic Questions:
- What does it mean to be a new creation in Christ?
- How does the concept of a new creation differ from the idea of self-improvement?
- Why is faith in Jesus Christ essential for experiencing this transformation?
- How does the Holy Spirit play a role in this transformation?
- How can we live out our new identity as new creations in Christ daily?
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Get more information and more lessons in the New Believers Bible Study here!
