“Behold, new things have come.”

It’s great to have new things. Many of us received gifts at Christmas that were new things. What makes something new?

First something new is what replaces what has worn out or become outdated. For example, we get new clothes, new electronic devices, new appliances, new cars, etc. Also, new describes something that has not been before, such as new inventions. Some of us who are older easily remember when there were no such things as cell phones, or even computers. We remember our parents and grandparents talk about “new fangled gadgets” that revolutionized our lives in so many ways.

But the “new” I’m thinking of is that which is found in what Paul wrote to the church in Corinth in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” (NASB)

Some observations:

Newness is in Christ. Jesus ushered in the reality of what God had been talking about throughout the Old Testament and in the Old Law. But the real newness is the life Christ gives to those dead in sin.

Old things pass away. When we become a new creature (or, creation) in Christ we put away what was old. Just like when we make those New Year’s resolutions and promise to put aside old habits we have told God that we will put aside an old life that was not consistent with His will.

New things have come. What are the results when we put off old habits and resolve to change? That depends on whether or not we follow through on our commitment. When one is successful on a diet you can see the results. When maturity comes as we grow older it can be seen. When we commit our life to follow Christ the change is also noticeable. People around us can see the “new.”

These words of Paul are familiar to most of us. Let’s take a closer look at them and make sure they apply to us so those around us can see Christ in us and the resolve we have in being new.

See you when the saints meet, Lord willing.

Love, Tony