Biblical meaning of new nature

In the Bible, the concept of a "new nature" refers to the transformation that takes place in a person's life when they become a Christian. This transformation is described in various passages, including:

  1. 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
  2. Ephesians 4:22-24 - "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
  3. Colossians 3:9-10 - "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator."

The "new nature" refers to the spiritual rebirth that occurs when a person places their faith in Jesus Christ. This rebirth is characterized by:

  1. A new heart: The Bible says that God will give us a new heart, one that is soft and responsive to Him (Ezekiel 36:26).
  2. A new mind: The old self is characterized by selfishness, pride, and rebellion against God. The new self is characterized by humility, love, and obedience to God (Romans 12:2).
  3. A new way of living: The new nature is characterized by a desire to live according to God's will, rather than according to the flesh (Galatians 5:16-25).
  4. A new identity: As believers, we are no longer defined by our old sinful nature, but by our new identity in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

The "new nature" is not a gradual process, but a sudden and dramatic transformation that occurs when we put our faith in Jesus Christ. It is not a work of our own, but a work of God's grace and power in our lives.

Some key characteristics of the new nature include:

  1. Love: The new nature is characterized by love for God and for others (1 John 4:7-12).
  2. Holiness: The new nature is characterized by a desire to live a holy life, separate from sin and the world (1 Peter 1:15-16).
  3. Obedience: The new nature is characterized by a desire to obey God's commands and follow His will (John 14:15).
  4. Humility: The new nature is characterized by humility and a willingness to submit to God's authority (Philippians 2:5-11).

Overall, the "new nature" is a powerful and transformative concept that is central to the Christian faith. It is a reminder that we are not the same people we used to be, but have been made new in Christ.