1. In 2 Corinthians 5:17 a very important subject is mentioned -- "being a new creature." 2. Being a new creature is a very special blessing from God in that "old things are passed away," and "all things are become new." 3. Today seems to be an especially good time to study this subject because the old year (2016) has passed and a New Year (2017) has begun. 4. The first point we need to consider is that . . .
Discussion:
I. BEING A NEW CREATURE IS VERY IMPORTANT (Galatians 6:15)
A. Under the Law of Moses circumcision was very important. 1. The Israelites practiced circumcision -- it showed that they were God's chosen people. 2. The Gentiles did not practice circumcision -- their failure to practice it showed that they were not God's chosen people. B. Under the Law of Christ,: 1. whether a person is circumcised no longer matters 2. being a new creature is what really matters 3. both Jews and Gentiles can become new creatures. C. Let us turn our attention to . . .
II. THREE PRINCIPLES REVEALED IN 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 THAT RELATE TO BEING A NEW CREATURE
A. First, those who are in Christ have become new creatures. 1. This is explained in more detail in Romans 6:3-4. a. We get into Christ when we are baptized into Him. b. When we are raised from baptism we are able to "walk in newness of life." 2. Additional information is presented in Galatians 3:27-29. B. Second, "old things are passed away" for those who have become new creatures. 1. When we become new creatures by being baptized into Christ, God forgives our old sinful ways (Colossians 2:12-13). 2. As new creatures we are to leave "old things" in the past (Colossians 3:5-11). 3. This is an ongoing process (Ephesians 4:21-31). C. Third, "all things are become new" for new creatures. 1. When we become new creatures by being baptized into Christ: a. we experience the new birth (John 3:5) b. we are created unto good works (Ephesians 2:10). 2. As new creatures we are to pursue those activities and qualities that please God. a. Ephesians 4:32 b. Colossians 3:12-15 3. This is an ongoing process (Colossians 3:1-4; 1 John 1:7).
Conclusion:
1. If you have not become a new creature now is an excellent time to be baptized into Christ. 2. Let us remember that new creatures are responsible for: a. abstaining from old things that displease God b. pursuing new things that please God.
