INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. In Christ: All are Become New Creatures
2. In Christ: Old Things are Passed Away
3. In Christ: All Things are Become New
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing the theme: “Are you in Christ?” This is one of the most important questions one might be asked; regarding his or her relationship with Christ. Why is the question so important?
2. First, we will consider the idea that in Christ: “All are become new creatures.” The obedient believer to the gospel of Christ becomes a new creature through the faith of the operation of God. We will discuss the process of becoming a new creature or new man in Christ.
3. Second, we will discuss that in Christ: “Old things are passed away.” By this we mean, the “old man and his deeds” have been destroyed, put away, or was crucified by Christ, Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:22. This occurred during the process of becoming a new man, “created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them,” Ephesians 2:10. This man is “created in righteousness and true holiness,” Ephesians 4:24.
4. Lastly, we will investigate that in Christ: “All things are become new.” By this we mean, the old man was put off; that the new man might be put on; “which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him,” Colossians 3:10. The new man has been created, “through the circumcision of Christ,” Colossians 2:11. With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I IN CHRIST: ALL ARE BECOME NEW CREATURES
A. Therefore, if any man be in Christ. “He is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new,” 2 Corinthians 5:17. Paul begins his affirmation of a new life, with a conditional statement: “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” There are three promises, which begin with two words in the Greek; that needs further discussion. Consider,
1. First, this conditional promise begins with two important Gr., words:
a. One, if any, “ei tis” or i tis; a pronoun, which means: if any:—he that, or if a(-ny) man, or whether any, or whosoever. This is the beginning of a conditional statement.
b. Two, be in, “en” or en; a primary preposition, denoting a (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and a relation of rest; "in," at, (up-) on, by, or with, etc. It may also denote a location or place “with or beside Christ.”
c. Here, however, it means “in Christ.” After this conditional statement: “If any man be in Christ.” He mentions three: “Great and precious promises.” They are:
1) First, “all are become new creatures.”
2) Second, “old things are passed away.”
3) Third, “all things are become new.”
2. Further, Paul continues, with: “If anyone be (is) in Christ, he is a new creature.” This is the first great and precious promise to one that is in Christ: “He is a new creature.” The new life begins when a person is granted a place, “in Christ.” He/she has become a “new creature.” Notice:
a. This implies a thorough change of the heart. “For if any man be (is) in Christ, he has become a new creation. If any man be a Christian indeed, and will approve his life as such, he is, or he must be, a new creature.
b. Some present this phrase to mean: “Let him be a new creature.” This must be the mind of all that care to profess the Christian faith, that they be new creatures; not only that they have a new name, and claim a new life, but that they might manifest the behavior of “a new heart and divine nature,” 2 Peter 1:3-4.
c. And so great is the change the grace of God makes in the soul, that, as it follows, old things are passed away-old thoughts, old principles, and old practices, are passed away; and all these things must become new.
d. The question again today/tonight is: “Are you in Christ?”
3. Next, regenerating grace creates a new life in the soul; and allows all things to become new. The renewed man behaves with new principles, by new rules, with new ends, and in a new state in Christ.
4. Finally, C. H. Spurgeon wrote: In a sermon on the same topic; Sermon (No. 881), words that might clarify the position and character of this “new creature.”
a. Title: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature,”- 2Cr 5:17.
b. He explained: “We have two great truths here, which would serve us for the subject of meditation for many a day: the believer’s position-he is “in Christ;” and the believer’s character-he is a “new creature.”
c. Spurgeon suggests there are two things of importance to be seen in the obedient believer’s life in Christ; and their walk as a “new creation.” They are:
1) The Believer’s position – he is “in Christ.”
2) The Believer’s character – he is a “new creature.”
d. Charles H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), once known as the Prince of Preachers, began his pastorate at London's New Park Street Church in 1854, at the age of twenty.
1) He was a noted Baptist preacher in London.
2) He also agrees in Christ’s Great Commission: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but, he that believeth not shall be damned,” Mark 16:15-16. Remarkable!
3) I beg the question: “Why do so many Baptist preachers disagree with him on this biblical truth?” In that, he was such a notable preacher among them.
e. The WWMCOC.org, does not condone religious error of any type; but, it does recognize any person’s work, that aligns itself to the Word of God. In Spurgeon’s sermon regarding the “new creature,” he has rightly judged in this matter, and deserves such credit, for this truth in Christ.
B. What does it mean to be a new creature? The word creature in Gr. is ktísis, ktis'-is; original formation (properly, the act; by implication, the thing):—building, creation, creature, or an ordinance. Jesus, Paul and other writers described the believer’s new change in other forms. Notice:
1. Jesus describes this change, as the “new birth” or, “being born anew,” John 3:3-5. We will speak more to this, later in this lesson.
2. Paul describes this person as:
a. The “inward man,” Romans 7:22; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
b. The “inner man,” Ephesians 3:16.
c. The “new man,” Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:9-10.
3. Peter addresses this person as:
a. Being “born again,” 1 Peter 1:23; James 1:18; 1 Corinthians 4:15.
b. One who exhibits the, “hidden man of the heart,” 1 Peter 3:4.
c. That we might be, “partakers of the divine nature,” 2 Peter 1:4.
4. Conclusion: The believer once hearing, believing and obeying the gospel; becomes a “new creature” or is “born again” which results in the “inward man, the inner man, the new man, and the hidden man of the heart.”
a. This is a change within the human spirit; as a result of the “renewing of the mind,” Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:23.
b. David wrote: “Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit in me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit,” Psalms 51:9-12.
c. It is an awakening of the human spirit through the “washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5.
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: “By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Two elements enter into the saving; these are referred to in John 3:5 as the birth of water and of the Spirit. God’s spirit (affects) the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel; thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun, and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism. Rom. 6:1–8 shows that the sinner dies to sin, is buried by baptism, rises to a new life, and is a new creature....Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit, but baptism is an outward act (of obedience) that God requires to complete the fact (or process),” Page 542.
C. Are you in Christ? This question is most important to all seeking to do: “The will of the Lord,” Ephesians 5:17. Notice:
1. First, to be in Christ means one has become a “new creature,” or the “creation of God,” 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10.
2. Further, it is also important for the believer to determine how one “gets into Christ” or the “church,” Acts 2:38-47; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.
3. Finally, Paul instructs us how to get into Christ. He wrote: “For ye are all the children of God by (the) faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ,” Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:1-7.
a. Mathew Henry wrote: “Those who are baptized into Christ have put on Christ; for thence it appears that under the gospel baptism...(all) are devoted to Christ, and do sincerely believe in him, are to all intents and purposes as much admitted into the privileges of the Christian... In our baptism we put on Christ; therein we profess our discipleship to him, and are obliged to behave ourselves as his faithful servants. Being baptized into Christ, we are baptized into his death, that as he died and rose again, so, in conformity thereunto, we should die unto sin, and walk in newness of life (Rom. vi. 3, 4),” Page 1160-1161.
b. B. W. Johnson wrote: “For ye are all the children of God. Faith has come to all of you. You are all God's children by faith in Christ. Hence you are under the schoolmaster no longer... He now shows how their faith acted to bring them into Christ. As Dr. Schaff says, “Faith always implies surrender.” Faith leads to obedience. The believer is baptized into Christ, and being found in him has put on Christ. Being in Christ, a member of his body, a part of the Son, the believer becomes a child of God...The baptized is surrounded by Christ and covered by his merits. . . . The figure of putting on Christ as a new dress afterwards gave rise to the custom of wearing white baptismal garments.”—“Schaff, in loco,” Page 459.
D. Paul’s description of God’s creation. He wrote: “For we are (the saved by grace) His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:10. Who himself hath: “Created all things by Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 3:9. Who is the: “Beginning of the creation of God,” Revelation 3:14; Colossians 1:16-18; John 1:1-3; John 1:10-14. Consider, further....
1. The word, workmanship in Gr. is poíema, poy'-ay-mah; which means a product, i.e. fabric:—thing that is made, workmanship, or creation.
2. The New Revised Standard Version renders the word “workmanship,” as “Masterpiece,” Ephesians 2:10. That is: “We are His masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus unto good works.” The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament, page 672.
3. The new creature, God’s workmanship or masterpiece is the product of faith and obedience to the gospel of Christ. It is this faith and obedience; one is saved by grace after uniting with Christ; being quicken or made alive; and being raised to “sit in heavenly places in Christ.” Notice:
a. Jesus was raised by God from the dead: “To sit at His own right hand in the heavenly places,” Ephesians 1:20-23; 1 Peter 3:22.
b. We as new creatures: “Hath been raised up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:6-7.
c. For by grace: “Ye are saved through (the) faith (dia tas pisteos): and that not of ourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast,” Ephesians 2:8-9 (Reference, Interlinear Textus Receptus, Blue Letter Bible). Paul is contrasting a salvation that is: through the system of faith; as appose to the system of law (the works of the law and human merit).
1) Salvation is through the faith (dia tas pisteos), or as a result of the system of faith, Ephesians 2:8. See also, Philippians 3:9; Colossians 2:12. We will discuss the absence of the article “tas" or "the” in the last section of this lesson.
2) Salvation was not granted merely upon our faith alone; or through a system of works, Ephesians 2:9; Romans 10:1-4. It was granted through belief and obedience to the system of faith; revealed by hearing, believing and obeying the gospel of Christ, Acts 6:7; Acts 18:8; Romans 10:16-18.
3) B. W. Johnson wrote: “The definite article is found before faith in the Greek, showing that the faith, or the gospel, is meant. It is the gift of God. The salvation is not due to ourselves, but is God's gift. The grammatical construction of the Greek does not allow us to make “faith” the subject of the last clause. It is not “faith,” but salvation through the faith, which is the gift of God. So says John Wesley in his Notes: “This refers to the previous clause, (that) you are saved, etc.,” Page 472.
4. We are his workmanship: “Created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them,” Ephesians 2:10.
a. Paul states that God’s work in Christ; is to create in us His “workmanship” or, as mentioned in another translation: “His masterpiece.” We are God’s masterpiece! How blessed is this picture of our relationship to God.
b. B. W. Johnson wrote: “For we are his workmanship. It is God who saved us; as new creatures, he had made us through the gospel. We are not saved by works, but are his workmanship, created unto good works, designed henceforth to abound in them. Which God hath before ordained. God has graciously quickened us, saved us, made us new creatures, and prepared us unto good works,” Page 472.
c. Matthew Henry wrote: “We are his workmanship; he means in respect of the new creation; not only as men, but as saints. The new man is a new creature; and God is its Creator... God, in his new creation, has designed and prepared us for good works... that we should be fruitful in them. Wherever God by his grace implants good principles, they are intended to be for good works... that is, by blessing us with the knowledge of his will, and with the assistance of his Holy Spirit; and by producing such a change in us... we should walk in them, or glorify God by an exemplary conversation and by our perseverance in holiness,” Page 1213-1214. He continues....
E. Operation of God. The new creature or the new man, mentioned in Paul’s other Letters refers to: “The operation of God; and the washing of regeneration,” Colossians 2:12; Titus 3:5. These references will enlighten us how this process is brought about by God, in Christ. Notice:
1. He describes the “operation of God” in the creation of the “new man” in his Letter to the Colossians.
2. He wrote: “In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands... putting off the body of the sins... through the faith of the operation of God,” Colossians 2:11-13.
3. Let’s move now to the next point, and discuss the outcome or fruits of the creation of the “new man.”
II IN CHRIST: OLD THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY
A. Old things passed away. This is the second promise of one being “in Christ,” that is: “Old things are passed away,” 2 Corinthians 5:17. The obedient believer; that has become a new creature in Christ, God has promise: “Old things are passed away.” Consider, he continues....
B. Put off the old man and his deeds. We will now consider how God in His grace has enabled us to, “put off the old man and his deeds.” Paul wrote....
1. To the Ephesians: “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness,” Ephesians 4:22-24.
2. He continues: “Wherefore putting away:
a. Lying, speaks every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another,” Ephesians 4:25.
b. Be ye angry, and sin not...on your wrath,” Ephesians 4:26.
c. Neither give place to the devil,” Ephesians 4:27.
d. Let him that stole steal no more...that he may give to him that needeth,” Ephesians 4:28.
e. Let no corrupt communications proceed out of your mouth...that it may minister grace unto the hearers,” Ephesians 4:29.
f. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption,” Ephesians 4:30. The new man, if he/she has put off the old man; and has put on the new man, will show the fruits of a new life, new walk and a new behavior in Christ. They being now: “created in righteousness and true holiness.”
3. To the Corinthians: “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11. Notice:
a. He reminds the Corinthians saints, that ye were (ONCE) “unrighteous and could not inherit the kingdom of God.”
b. But NOW ye are: “Washed, ye are sanctified, and ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11. For these Corinthians’: “old things are passed away” and, they are now made righteous through the grace of God; and their obedience to the gospel of Christ, Acts 18:8.
1) It doesn’t make any difference how bad, broken or dysfunctional your life has been up to now. You may feel like a failure and nothing good awaits you. Beloved, don’t despair; your help is on the way. David wrote:
a) One, “For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock,” Psalms 27:5.
b) Two, “He brought me up also out of a horrible pit; out of the miry clay; and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings,” Psalms 40:2.
c) Three, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way,” Psalms 37:23. Your night may be full of tears and sorrow, but David promises they shall come to an end. Notice, again....
d) Four, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” Psalms 30:5; Psalms 30:11-12.
NOTE: Illustrate Hezekiah's prayer and weeping, Isaiah 38:3-5; Matthew 5:4.
2) Conclusion: To Israel Jesus said: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord,” Matthew 23:37-39.
a) The Lord desires to gather all up, to hide them under his wings, to set their feet upon a solid rock; and to establish their going. David wrote: “The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out, and thy coming in, from this time forth, and even for evermore,” Psalms 121:7-8.
b) I pray you will allow Him to save you from the wrath; that is, yet to come.
c) Israel rejected His call to repentance and salvation. Our Lord wept over the city! Israel would not come to Him; that they might have life, John 10:10.
3) You however, can be “washed, sanctified and justified in the name of Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
4) That ye might be saved, and walk before God in “righteousness and true holiness.” And the church said: Amen. Additionally the beloved apostle....
c. Paul wrote to Titus of a washing: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost... That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life,” Titus 3:5-7; Ephesians 1:13-14; Ephesians 4:30.
d. Ananias told Paul to be washed: “And now why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord,” Acts 22:16.
1) He was three days in Damascus repentant and praying, Acts 9:9-11.
2) Ananias came to Paul with the answer; and his healing, Acts 9:17.
3) And Paul arose, and was baptized, Acts 9:18.
4. To the Colossians: “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds,” Colossians 3:8-10. He now turns to the “old things.”
C. Old things. Here he speaks of the old man and his deeds. These have been set aside; done away with; or crucified in Christ. He wrote: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ is dead in vain,” Galatians 2:20-21; Romans 5:1-2.
1. What were some of Paul’s “old man and his deeds” he had to crucify? There are several we might consider in this lesson. Paul had his challenges; and you have yours. Let’s consider a few of Paul’s “old man and his deeds.” Might I suggest - there could have been three things?
2. First, his nobility of life. Paul was a man born with nobility, with esteemed education and learning, and with the customs of a prominent Jewish family, Acts 22:3. He noted:
a. I was, “circumcised on the eight day.”
b. Born in Tarsus, “of the stock of Israel.”
c. From, “the tribe of Benjamin.”
d. I was a, “Hebrew of Hebrews.”
3. Further, his life in a national religion.
a. Recognize as a “Pharisee, concerning the law.”
1) “Educated under the feet of Gamaliel,” Acts 22:3.
2) “Taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers,” Acts 22:3.
3) “Have a good conscience before God until this day,” Acts 23:1.
4) “As pertaining to righteousness in the law: “blameless.”
b. Having “zeal in his father’s religion.”
1) “Being more exceedingly zealous in the traditions of my fathers.”
2) “Profited in the Jewish religion above many of my equals.”
3) “Zealous towards God, as all the people (Israel),” Acts 22:3.
4. Finally, his notorious destruction of “the way.”
a. He, “persecuted the church of God, and wasted it,” Galatians 1:13.
b. As “concerning zeal, persecuting the church.”
c. He, “persecuted this way unto the death,” Acts 22:4.
d. We have combined Galatians 1:13-24; Philippians 3:5-7; and other references from the Book of Acts, to list Paul’s “old man and his deeds.”
5. God’s divine intervention. He concludes: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by His grace. To reveal His Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathens; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood...And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, that he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed: And they glorified God in me,” Galatians 1:15-16; Galatians 1:22-24. The results of God’s divine intervention...the old things....
D. Are passed away. The promise here is, that when one becomes and “new creature: the old things are passed away.” They are done away with in Christ. We can see the fruit of the Spirit, in the life of Paul. He wrote: “When it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace,” Galatians 1:15. Notice:
1. What were the things that “passed away” in Paul’s life?
2. That he might be “called by grace; and preach the gospel among the Gentiles?” See also Acts 9:15-16; Acts 22:12-16; Acts 26:15-18. Consider....
a. First, his trust in a noble birth right as a Jew. Some have great pride in their human heritage. They hold superiority to themselves, over others. Pride in ones’ birth place or nationality can become destructive in life; and service unto God. He counted all these things: “as dung for Christ,” Philippians 3:7.
b. Further, his trust and standing in his nation’s religion. He rose to heights in the “religion of his fathers,” only to be in opposition with God; and His work in the redemption of all mankind.
1) Many have climbed to great heights within their various denominations; only to be blinded by hatred for the “way of truth” like Paul, before his conversion to Christ.
2) Many hold the faith of their fathers more important, than “the gospel of the faith” of Christ. Which is the “word of truth, the gospel of (their) salvation,” Ephesians 1:13.
c. Finally, his zeal and notoriously destructive practices against the way of truth. Paul was blinded by an immense hatred for the “way of truth.” He sought to destroy any that was found in “this way,” Acts 8:3; Acts 9:2; Acts 22:4.
3. The “old man and his deeds” had to be destroyed, abandoned and forgiven by God; before Paul could become a “new creature,” and begin his work in preaching “the gospel of the faith which once he destroyed,” Galatians 1:23. Consider....
a. The phrase: “The gospel of the faith” is very important; and bears some close and exhaustive textual examination.
b. In the Gr., the phase is: Paul, “nyn euaggelizo tan pistin” or he, “now announces the glad tiding—the faith, which he once ravaged,” Galatians 1:23.
1) This phase is important because; it links: “the gospel” to “the faith.” The Gr. word for gospel is: euaggelizo, i.e., “good news, or glad tidings,” Romans 1:16.
2) The good news is therefore, “the gospel of the faith,” Romans 10:13-17.
3) In other words, it is: “The faith of the gospel,” Philippians 1:27.
4) God, whereunto: “Called you through the good news (‘dia tou euaggelion’)...to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14. (The believer is called “through the gospel” or “through the faith” of the gospel). See The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament, page 722.
5) The gospel or the good news is: “The faith which was once delivered unto the saints,” Jude 1:3; Revelation 13:10. I wish I had some help!
c. Luke wrote, this is the message: “A great company of the priests were (being) obedient to the faith,” Acts 6:7. The gospel must be both believed and obeyed; Romans 10:16-17; Romans 1:5; Romans 16:25-26.
d. Therefore, it is the “gospel of the faith” when preached; believed and obeyed; that makes one: “a new creature” or, “a new man” in Christ. One might ask....
4. How does someone become a “new creature: a new man?” So as not to get ahead of myself; we’ll consider that process later in the lesson. For now....
E. Here’s some good news. The gospel of Christ when heard preached, believed and obeyed; enables one to be saved, to be forgiven, or to put off the “old man and his deeds.” All have sinned, and live with the “old man and his deeds,” until forgiven, by God, Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23.
1. The question today/tonight: “Are you willing to submit yourself to the will of the Lord?” See Ephesians 5:17; Matthew 7:21-23; John 7:16-18. Consider with me NOW the “will of the Lord.” Here is why, one should!
2. First, “But God (hath) commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,” Romans 5:8; John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:14-16.
3. Further, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise...not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance,” 2 Peter 3:9.
4. Finally, “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus: who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,” 1 Timothy 2:3-6; Matthew 20:28; Galatians 1:4.
5. Conclusion: God has made salvation and the forgiveness of sins available to all; through the death of Jesus Christ, on the cross.
a. The believers must hear, believe and obey the gospel of Christ, in order to be saved, Romans 1:16.
b. After the believer accepts the gospel of Christ; and completes their obedience to “that form of doctrine, which make them free from their sin,” Romans 6:17-18.
c. They will then “become a new creature, and the old things are passed away,” 2 Corinthians 5:17. This now brings us to the last point in our lesson, the process of becoming a “new creature” in Christ.
III IN CHRIST: ALL THINGS ARE BECOME NEW
A. All things are become new. This is the final promise of one being “in Christ,” that is, “all things are become new,” 2 Corinthians 5:17. For the new creature, God now promises that: “All things are become new.”
1. This promise agrees with the prophet Isaiah, who wrote: “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert,” Isaiah 43:18-19; Isaiah 51:10; Exodus 15:8; Exodus 15:13.
2. This was the promise God made to His people Israel. Jehovah said that they were to: “Remember not the former things; neither should they consider the things of old. I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and put rivers in the desert.” Notice:
a. First Jehovah, promises to do yet greater things for them than he had done in the days of old; “Remember not the former things, from them to take occasion, as some do, to undervalue the present things, as if the former days were better than these; no, you may, if you will, comparatively forget them, and yet know enough by the events of your own day to convince you that the Lord is God alone; for, behold, the Lord will do a new thing, no way inferior, both for the wonder and the worth of the mercy, to the things of old.”
1) “Though former mercies must not be forgotten, new mercies must in a special manner excel in greatness!”
2) “Now it shall spring forth, as it were a surprise upon you; like those that dream.”
3) “Shall you not know it? And will you not know, it was as a result of God's handy work?”
b. Second, Jehovah promises not only to deliver them out of Babylon’s bondage, but to conduct them safely and with care to their own land, Jerusalem. Consider....
1) “I will make a way in the wilderness and put rivers in the desert; for, it seems, the way from Babylon to Canaan, as well as from Egypt, lay through a desert land, which, while the returning captives passed through, God would provide for them, that their camp should be both well supplied and under His divine care.”
2) “The same God: that made for them a way through the Red Sea; will make a way through the wilderness, as well. He is able to take them through the greatest difficulties” into the land of promise.
3) “And he that made the Red sea into dry lands; can produce waters in the driest land, in such abundance as to give drink unto his people, his chosen, who honour God, as their great benefactor.” See Matthew Henry’s Complete Bible Commentary.
3. Jehovah declareth: “I, even I, am he that blotted out thy transgression for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified,” Isaiah 43:25-26; Isaiah 44:22.
4. Former things: “Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I (will) tell you of them,” Isaiah 42:9. Notice:
a. Isaiah is prophetically speaking regarding Israel’s promise of return from bondage; and old things (former things) are come to pass, and new things will appear; and they shall spring forth.
b. Paul is quoting the prophet; making an application to us; from the promise Jehovah made unto Israel. Consider....
1) The Lord is going to do: “A new thing: the old things will pass away; and behold, all things will become new.”
2) The Lord will: “Blot out our transgressions, and remember our sins no more,” Hebrews 8:10-12; Hebrews 10:15-18, Isaiah 44:22. Observe....
3) Jehovah, He will cast:
a) “All our sins into the depths of the sea,” Micah 7:18-19.
b) “All our sins behind His back,” Isaiah 38:17.
4) David wrote: “As far as the east is from the west, so hath He removed our transgressions from us,” Psalms 103:12.
5) Thou hast: “Forgiven the iniquities of thy people, thou hast covered all their sins. Selah,” Psalms 85:2; Psalms 32:1-2; Romans 4:6-8.
a) What a loving and merciful God, is He!
b) So saith all the prophets from Samuel unto John, Acts 3:22-24.
c. These were great prophetic utterances of the times; that would come through Jesus Christ, as Saviour and Lord. Observe....
1) John at the river Jordan herald: “Behold the lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world,” John 1:29; Matthew 1:21.
2) Paul wrote: “And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, there shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins,” Romans 11:26-27; Isaiah 59:20.
3) Peter said after Pentecost: “Ye are the children of the prophets and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham: An in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities,” Acts 3:25-26; Zechariah 13:1; Luke 24:44-48.
d. Through Him, all obedient believers of the gospel of Christ; will become “new creatures,” in Jesus Christ. One might ask right about now....
B. How does one become a new creature? Up until this time we have discussed what are the fruit and behavior of the “new creature – the new man.” We now will answer the question before us, in great earnest. That is – “How does one become a new creature in Christ?” To understand God’s divine process, we must return to Paul’s Letter, to the saints at Colossae. We will see in it the "pattern of conversion," as outlined in the Book of Acts. Observe--
1. Paul wrote: “In whom (Christ) also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ,” Colossians 2:11.
2. He continues: “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are raised with him through the faith of the operation (working) of God, who hath raised him from the dead,” Colossians 2:12.
3. He concludes: “And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses,” Colossians 2:13-14. Let’s now consider Paul’s analysis of the “new man;” that has been created “through the faith or the gospel of Christ.” Notice:
a. First, it begins by our “putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ.” To the Ephesians: “Even when we were dead in trespasses and sins,” Ephesians 2:1; Ephesians 2:5.
b. Further, by being “buried with him (Christ) in baptism, wherein also ye are raised with Him.” To the Romans: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism...even so we also should walk in newness of life,” Romans 6:1-6.
c. Next, through the faith (dia tas pisteos) of the operation (energeia) of God, who hath raised Him (Christ) from the dead,” Colossians 2:12.
NOTE: As promised earlier; we will discuss the absence of the article (“tas” or “the”) in several other passages, which in the Greek reads: “Through the faith.” Notice, these three passages: having the missing article in the English translation.
1) First, in the Letter to the Galatians: “For ye are all the children of God through the faith in Christ Jesus,” Galatians 3:26. See also Galatians 3:14. The promise of the Spirit is given “through the faith”; or by the “hearing of faith” and not by the works of the Law, Galatians 3:1-3.
2) Second, in the Letter to the Ephesians: “For by grace are ye saved through the faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God,” Ephesians 2:8.
3) Third, in the Letter to the Philippians: “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness; which is of the law, but, that which is through the faith of Christ,” Philippians 3:9.
4) Each of these passages in the Gr., read “through the faith.” The obedient believer is saved by grace; becomes a child of God, or is “made the righteousness of God, through the faith, in Christ,” 2 Corinthians 5:21. Paul continues....
d. Additionally, “And we being dead in our sins and the uncircumcision of our flesh.” To the Ephesians: “Even when we were dead in sins,” Ephesians 2:5.
e. Particularly, “He hath quickened (us) together with him.” To the Ephesians: “Hath quickened us together with Christ,” Ephesians 2:5.
f. Finally, God “having forgiven you all trespasses.” To the Ephesians: “(by grace ye are saved),” Ephesians 2:5. I suggest: “Being forgiven all trespasses;” and, “by grace ye are saved,” are synonymous. Both are ONLY possible: “Through obedience to the faith or the gospel of Christ," Romans 1:16.
4. Paul harmonizes God’s divine process within his Letters to the Colossians; Romans and the Ephesians. Each presents the same message of regeneration; the creation of the “new man,” or the making of God’s “masterpiece,” in Christ Jesus.
5. Conclusion: The new creature; the new man is the product of “the operation of God,” in the “new birth” or “regeneration.”
a. If one has been born again; regenerated, or become a new creature – it was done - “through the circumcision of Christ,” Colossians 2:11.
b. As a result of God’s work in regeneration, the new creature, or the new creation; “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new,” 2 Corinthians 5:17; Titus 3:5. Amen, somebody!
c. Paul enjoins the “circumcision of Christ”; to the “putting off the body of the sins of the flesh.” Circumcision in the Gr. is peritome, pe-re-to-ma', which means the extinction of the passions; and, the removal of all spiritual impurity; that is: “The putting off, or the removal of the sins of the flesh,” Colossians 2:11. Let’s notice Paul’s analogy of our death, burial and resurrection with Christ. Observe….
1) The circumcision of Christ is without hands: “That is,
a) The putting off the body of the sins of the flesh.
b) “By the circumcision of Christ,” Colossians 2:11.
c) Through the faith of the operation of God.
d) Who raised Him (Jesus) from the dead,” Colossians 2:12.
2) Buried with Him in baptism: “That is,
a) Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism, Romans 6:3-4.
b) Even when we were dead in sins, Ephesians 2:5.
c) “In the uncircumcision of our flesh,” Colossians 2:12-13.
d) For if we have been planted together…of His death.
e) “We shall be also in the…of His resurrection,” Romans 6:5.
3) There hath he quickened us: “That is,
a) He hath quickened us together with Him.
b) He hath made us “alive” in Christ.
c) “(By grace ye are saved),” Ephesians 2:5; Ephesians 2:8-9.
d) “Having forgiven us all trespasses and sins,” Colossians 2:13.
e) “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him.”
f) “That the body of sins might be destroyed,” Romans 6:6.
4) Wherein also we are raised: “That is,
a) He that raise us up together with Him.
b) “Made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:6.
c) “That henceforth we should not serve sin,” Romans 6:6.
d) “For he that is dead is freed from sin…we shall also live with Him,” Romans 6:7-8.
5. Conclusion: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth,” Colossians 3:1-2; Matthew 6:19-20.
6. Summary: Therefore, God has ordained that the sinner while in the waters of baptism with Jesus, to perform a “divine operation;” in putting off the old man; and putting on the new man (having forgiven all their trespasses and sins); that he/she might be brought forth – (born again): “Out of the water and of the Spirit;” into the kingdom of God, as a new creature in Christ Jesus, 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 3:23-27; John 3:3-5.
a. (We go down into the water, “with Jesus” to be baptized “into Jesus;” in order to come up, out of the water “in Christ!”).
b. If any man be: “In Christ he is a new creature.” Amen, and amen.
NOTE: Illustrate: Troubling of the water, John 5:1-9. The water was agitated.
C. All things are become new. This is ONLY possible after the “old man and his deeds” have been put off; and the believer has become a new creature in Christ.
What is meant: "By putting on the new man?" Paul wrote:
1. First, “Who had put off the old man...And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him,” Colossians 3:10. He continues....
2. Further, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye,” Colossians 3:12-13.
3. Next, “And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness: and let the peace of God rule in your hearts; to which also ye are called in one body, and be ye thankful,” Colossians 3:14-15.
4. Finally, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom...And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him,” Colossians 3:16-17.
5. Conclusion: These are all the new behaviors and walk of the “new creature” in Christ Jesus. The “new man” must walk in a manner exhibiting the mind and character of Christ. To the Ephesians he wrote:
a. One, “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor,” Ephesians 5:1-2.
b. Two, “For ye were sometime (in) darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light,” Ephesians 5:8.
c. Three, “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but wise. (Walk), redeeming the time, because the days are evil,” Ephesians 5:15-16.
D. The character of the new creature. The new creature or new man should have a new behavior and a new walk. Consider....
1. First, Paul wrote: “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you,” Ephesians 4:31-32. The Ephesian’s he admonished that they: “Put on the new man, who after God is created in righteousness and true holiness,” Ephesians 4:24.
2. Further, He wrote: “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called... in the bond of peace,” Ephesians 4:1-3; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12.
3. Finally, Peter wrote: “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rending evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessings knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing,” 1 Peter 3:8-11.
4. Paul speaks of: “(The fruit of the Spirit (which) is in all goodness and righteousness and truth); proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but reprove them,” Ephesians 5:9-11. As we move to conclusion, let’s consider God’s promise of spiritual blessings to the new creature; the new man; or the man created “through the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5.
E. Promise of spiritual blessings. Paul wrote regarding:
1. Spiritual blessings: “All spiritual blessings are in Christ,” Ephesians 1:3. The blessings of forgiveness of sins, redemption, regeneration and grace are all in Christ. If one is not in Christ; then, they have not secured these blessings; that are promised, and given by God to all that believe and obey Him.
2. Salvation: “Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory,” 2 Timothy 2:10.
3. Redemption and forgiveness of sin: “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace,” Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14.
4. No condemnation: “There is therefore now, no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit is life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, (He) condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1-4; Romans 10:1-4.
5. Inheritance: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to the abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time,” 1 Peter 1:3-5.
6. Reconciliation: “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto him-self, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as through God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him (Christ) to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him,” 2 Corinthians 5:18-21; Romans 4:6-8. Praise God, amen.
a. With this voice of praise, let’s move to a conclusion; and beseech all who are “not in Christ” to take this time to obey the gospel, in order to become “a new creature” in Christ.
b. I too, like Paul pray: “In Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.” In this lesson we have considered...begin this day/year with a new hope, a new beginning, and as a new creature.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. In Christ: All are Become New Creatures
2. In Christ: Old Things are Passed Away
3. In Christ: All Things are Become New
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered the idea that in Christ: “All are become new creatures.” The obedient believer to the gospel of Christ becomes a new creature through the faith of the operation of God. We thorough discussed the process of becoming a new creature or a new man in Christ.
2. Second, we discussed that in Christ: “Old things are passed away.” By this we meant, the “old man and his deeds” have been destroyed, put away, or was crucified by Christ, Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:22. This occurred during the process of becoming a new man, “created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them,” Ephesians 2:10. This man is “created in righteousness and true holiness,” Ephesians 4:24.
3. Lastly, we investigated that in Christ: “All things are become new.” By this we learned that, the old man was put off; that the new man might be put on; “which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him,” Colossians 3:10. The new man has been created through: "The circumcision of Christ and the operation of God," Colossians 2:11; Colossians 2:12.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
We thank these prolific writers for their wisdom and insight, into the Holy Scriptures. We acknowledge here our consultation of their work, in this lesson.
