New nature in christ
The concept of "new nature in Christ" refers to the idea that when a person becomes a Christian, they are given a new nature or a new identity in Christ. This new nature is characterized by spiritual qualities and attributes that are different from the old nature, which is often referred to as the "flesh" or the "old self."
In the Bible, the concept of the new nature is often described as a transformation that takes place when a person is born again or regenerated by the Holy Spirit. This transformation is described as a change from being controlled by the flesh to being controlled by the Spirit (Romans 8:9-11).
The new nature in Christ is characterized by several key qualities, including:
- Holiness: The new nature is holy and set apart for God's purposes (1 Peter 1:15-16).
- Righteousness: The new nature is righteous and just, and is able to live in harmony with God's laws and standards (Romans 5:17).
- Love: The new nature is characterized by love for God and for others (1 John 4:7-8).
- Peace: The new nature is marked by peace with God and with others (Romans 5:1).
- Joy: The new nature is characterized by joy and rejoicing in the Lord (Philippians 4:4).
- Gentleness: The new nature is gentle and humble, and is able to submit to God's will (Ephesians 4:2).
- Patience: The new nature is patient and able to endure trials and tribulations (James 1:4).
- Kindness: The new nature is kind and compassionate towards others (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Goodness: The new nature is good and able to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
- Faithfulness: The new nature is faithful and able to remain loyal to God and to others (1 Corinthians 1:9).
The new nature in Christ is not something that we can achieve on our own, but rather it is a gift from God that is given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a new creation, a new identity, and a new way of living that is characterized by spiritual qualities and attributes that are different from the old nature.
In practical terms, the new nature in Christ is expressed in our daily lives through our thoughts, words, and actions. It is a gradual process of transformation that takes place as we yield to the Holy Spirit and seek to live according to God's will. It is a process that requires effort and discipline, but it is also a process that is empowered by the Holy Spirit and is characterized by joy, peace, and freedom.
Some key passages that describe the new nature in Christ include:
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
- 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."
- 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."
Overall, the new nature in Christ is a powerful and transformative reality that is available to all who put their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a new creation, a new identity, and a new way of living that is characterized by spiritual qualities and attributes that are different from the old nature.