What does it mean to be in Christ?
In Christ, we are:
- United with Christ in his death and resurrection (Ephesians 2:5-6)
- Indwelt by the Holy Spirit (John 14:17)
- Given a new spiritual nature (2 Peter 1:4)
- Adopted as God’s children (Ephesians 1:5)
- Forgiven of our sins (Colossians 2:13)
- Sealed for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30)
What is the new creature?
When a person becomes a Christian, the Bible says that they become a “new creature.” This is a radical change. It is not just a “patch-up” job where old things are mended and made new again. It is not just a change of attitude or behavior. It is an entirely new creation. But what does that mean?
The Greek word for “creature” is ktisis, which can also be translated as “creation.” So, to say that a Christian is a “new creature” is to say that they are a new creation. This is significant because it means that Christians are no longer under the old covenant of law but are now under the new covenant of grace (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Under the old covenant, people tried to please God by keeping His laws perfectly. But since no one could do this, they were sinners worthy of His wrath (Romans 3:20). However, under the new covenant, Christians are made right with God not by their own efforts but by faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21-22). This new relationship with God enables Christians to live lives that please Him (2 Corinthians 5:15).
So, being a “new creature” means that Christians have been given a new life in Christ. They are no longer bound by sin and law but are free to live in obedience to God out of love for Him. This transformation takes place at salvation and is evident in the way we live our lives thereafter
How does being in Christ change things?
When you become a Christian, you are made into a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This means that your relationship with God is completely different than it was before. You are made into a new person who is forgiven and given eternal life.