Scripture Minute – 2 Corinthians 5:17

“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)

The Apostle Paul was inspired to write a thorough message about the life-changing power of being in a relationship with Jesus Christ. This verse is only one example of Paul’s testimony about having a new life in Christ. When someone becomes a genuine follower of Christ, that person undergoes a fundamental change in their identity and nature. A believer is referred to as a “new creature” or a “new creation.” This transformation exhibits itself as a departure from one’s previous way of life. The past sins, burdens, and patterns of ungodly behaviour no longer define the “new creature”. Instead, they are given a fresh start, and their life takes on a new direction and purpose, encapsulated by the statement “all things are become new.”

Being in Christ brings about a radical transformation in a person’s life. The believer experiences a departure from their old self and a complete renewal of their identity and purpose. By accepting Christ, the believer is freed from the weight of their past and given a fresh start, embarking on a new journey guided by faith and a closer connection to God through the Holy Spirit.