1. This verse mentions several things that are very special in connection with those who are in Christ, including: a. being new creatures b. old things passing away c. all things becoming new. 2. Today we are focusing primarily on the fact that "all things become new." 3. Before we think about these new things, let us examine the statement found in 2 Corinthians 5:17.
Discussion:
I. THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST ARE NEW CREATURES
A. We become new creatures when we get into Christ. 1. "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature." 2. We learn from Galatians 3:26-27 how to get into Christ. B. When we get into Christ, we are made new creatures in that old things are passed away and all things become new (Colossians 3:9-11). C. This should impress us with the cleansing power of the Lord's blood. 1. (Matthew 26:28) Jesus shed His blood "for many for the remission of sins." 2. When we are baptized, the Lord's blood cleanses us, and God remembers our sins and iniquities no more (Hebrews 10:17). D. According to Galatians 6:15, becoming a new creature is extremely important.
II. THE THINGS THAT BECOME NEW INCLUDE SPECIAL BLESSINGS
A. Those who are in Christ wear a new name -- "Christian" (Acts 11:26). B. Those who are in Christ gain access to "all spiritual blessings" (Ephesians 1:3). C. Those who are in Christ look for a new dwelling place (2 Peter 3:13). 1. (vs.10) The earth that we dwell in now will be burned up. 2. This new dwelling place will not be like the old one (Revelation 21:1-4).
III. THE THINGS THAT BECOME NEW ALSO INCLUDE SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
A. As new creatures, we are to walk in newness of life. 1. See Romans 6:3-4. 2. This is explained in vs.11-13. B. As new creatures, we are to be continually renewed (Ephesians 4:22-24). 1. This involves: a. putting away things that are corrupt (vs.25-31) b. putting on things which are pleasing to God (vs.32). 2. Being renewed is to be done on a daily basis (2 Corinthians 4:16). 3. Renewing our minds will transform us so we will not be conformed to the world (Romans 12:2). C. As new creatures, we are to grow (1 Peter 2:1-3). 1. In order to grow spiritually, we must have proper nourishment. 2. We must abstain from the things that prohibit growth (vs.1). 3. (vs.2) We are to desire the sincere milk of the word. D. As new creatures, we must obey the Lord's new commandment (John 13:34-35).
Conclusion:
1. These are some new things that relate to those who are in Christ. a. Those who are in Christ are new creatures. b. Those who are in Christ gain access to new blessings. c. Those who are in Christ gain new responsibilities. 2. Have you become a new creature by being baptized into Christ?
