Transformed By Truth: A New Creation In Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17 Series

Transformed by Truth: A New Creation in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT): "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"

Introduction

Today, we delve into the profound truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17, a verse that encapsulates the transformative power of being in Christ. As we explore this scripture, we will uncover the meaning of becoming a new creation, the implications for our daily lives, and how this transformation reflects God’s glory. Let us open our hearts and minds to the truth that in Christ, we are truly made new.

Point 1: The Reality of New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT): "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"

Paul is declaring a fundamental change that occurs when a person is in Christ. The phrase "in Christ" signifies a vital union with Jesus through faith. The old life, characterized by sin and separation from God, is gone. In its place, a new life, marked by righteousness and communion with God, begins. This transformation is not merely external but involves a profound change in the believer’s nature and identity.

"As Christ is the new man, so must we also be new creatures in Him." - Charles Spurgeon

Galatians 2:20 (NLT): "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

In this verse, Paul declares the profound transformation that occurs when we accept Christ. Our old self, which is dominated by sin, is crucified with Christ. This signifies that our sinful nature and its power over us have been put to death. Now, Christ lives in us. This means that our identity, our motivations, and our actions are now shaped by Jesus who resides within us through the Holy Spirit. Our lives are no longer our own but are to be lived in trust and faith in the Son of God, who demonstrated His immense love by sacrificing Himself for us.

John Stott, a well-known Christian author, once said, "We are not our own; we have been bought with a price. Consequently, we cannot live as we please. We must live as He pleases."

Imagine a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. The caterpillar’s old life of crawling and consuming leaves is completely transformed as it becomes a butterfly, free to fly and pollinate flowers. Similarly, our old life is radically transformed when we are in Christ, and we are set free to live a new life for His glory.

Point 2: The Old Life Is Gone

The old life refers to our former way of living before encountering Christ. It encompasses our sinful nature, past mistakes, and the separation from God that sin brings. This old life is not just put aside; it is completely eradicated through the power of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

"Christians are not just nice people; they are new people." - Max Lucado

Ephesians 4:22-24 (NLT): "Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy."

Paul calls believers to actively reject their old sinful nature and the lifestyle associated with it. This old nature is described as being corrupted by deceitful desires, leading us away from God. Instead, we are to allow the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and attitudes. This renewal is a continual process of transformation where our thoughts and actions align more closely with God's will. By putting on our new nature, we embrace the righteousness and holiness that reflect God's character.

Charles Spurgeon wisely noted, "The grace that does not change my life will not save my soul."

Consider the story of John Newton, the former slave trader who became a minister and the author of the hymn "Amazing Grace." His transformation from a man steeped in sin to a devoted follower of Christ exemplifies the truth that the old life is gone when we are made new in Christ.

Point 3: The New Life Has Begun

The new life in Christ is characterized by a renewed mind, a transformed heart, and a restored relationship with God. It is a life empowered by the Holy Spirit, producing the fruit of the Spirit and reflecting the character of Jesus. This new life is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of growth and sanctification.

"To be in Christ—that is redemption; but for Christ to be in you—that is sanctification!" - W. Ian Thomas