Becoming a New Creation
Being born again changes more than our destination; it changes our identity.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
Notice what Paul does not say.
He does not say the believer becomes a slightly improved version of the old self.
He says the believer becomes a new creation.
This new life begins at salvation and continues as we grow in Christ.
The Promise of a New Heart
Long before Jesus spoke with Nicodemus, God promised spiritual renewal.
Ezekiel 36:26
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”
Sin hardened the human heart.
God’s solution was not merely external reform.
His solution was inner transformation.
The new birth changes us from the inside out.
The Work of the Holy Spirit
The new birth is not something we accomplish ourselves.
It is a work of God.
Titus 3:5
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”
Notice several important truths:
- Salvation is not earned by good works.
- Salvation comes through God’s mercy.
- Regeneration is God’s work.
- The Holy Spirit brings spiritual renewal.