Transforming Lives: The New Creation in Christ

Devotional

Day 1: The New Creation in Christ

Through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into new creatures, reflecting the image of Christ. This transformation is not about becoming divine but about embodying the spirit of Christ as humans. This new identity calls us to live out the divine purpose of revealing God's thoughts and realities in the world. As new creations, we are called to a higher standard of living, one that mirrors the life and teachings of Jesus. This transformation is a continuous process, requiring daily surrender and reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide and shape us.

The concept of being a new creation in Christ is profound and life-changing. It means that our old selves, with all their flaws and sins, have been crucified with Christ, and we have been given a new identity. This new identity is not just a superficial change but a deep, spiritual rebirth that affects every aspect of our lives. We are now called to live in a way that reflects the character and love of Christ, showing the world what it means to be a follower of Jesus. [00:49]

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."

Reflection: What specific areas of your life do you need to surrender to the Holy Spirit to fully embrace your new identity in Christ?

Day 2: Redemption and Restoration

The fall of man introduced sin and altered our original state, but God's plan for humanity remained unbroken. Redemption through Christ bridges the gap caused by the fall, restoring us to our original purpose. This redemption is not just about personal salvation but about fulfilling God's eternal plan to reveal Himself through us. Through Christ's sacrifice, we are not only forgiven but also restored to our intended role as bearers of God's image and representatives of His kingdom on earth.

Redemption is a powerful theme that underscores the entire narrative of the Bible. It is the story of God's relentless pursuit of humanity, despite our failures and sins. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, we are offered a second chance to live out our original purpose. This restoration process is ongoing, as we continually grow in our understanding of God's love and our role in His plan. It is a call to live with purpose and intentionality, knowing that our lives have eternal significance. [04:47]

Ephesians 1:7-8 (ESV): "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight."

Reflection: How can you actively participate in God's plan to reveal Himself through your daily actions and interactions with others?

Day 3: The Kind of Man God Desires

The incarnation of Christ serves as a model for the kind of man God desires—one conformed to the image of Jesus. This transformation involves the crucifixion of the old man and the birth of a new creation. Our lives are meant to express God's thoughts and mind, humbling us with the realization of our divine purpose. Jesus' life on earth provides a blueprint for how we should live, emphasizing humility, love, and obedience to God's will.

Being conformed to the image of Christ is a lifelong journey that requires dedication and perseverance. It means allowing God to shape and mold us, often through challenging circumstances, to become more like Jesus. This process involves daily dying to our old selves and embracing the new life that Christ offers. It is a call to live with integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose, knowing that we are representing Christ to the world. [05:31]

Romans 8:29 (ESV): "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers."

Reflection: In what ways can you intentionally model your life after Jesus, especially in areas where you struggle the most?

Day 4: Theological Roots of Human Problems

Despite advancements in various sciences, the root of man's problems is theological. The fall has left man in a state of total depravity, affecting every aspect of his being. The answers to these problems lie in the knowledge of God and the transformative power of Christ. Understanding the theological roots of our issues helps us to address them at their core, rather than just treating the symptoms. It calls us to seek God's wisdom and guidance in all areas of our lives.

Theological understanding is crucial for addressing the deeper issues of the human condition. While science and psychology offer valuable insights, they often fall short of addressing the spiritual aspects of our problems. By turning to God and His Word, we can find true healing and transformation. This involves a commitment to studying the Bible, prayer, and seeking the counsel of mature believers. It is a reminder that our ultimate hope and solution lie in God, not in human wisdom. [09:25]

Jeremiah 17:9-10 (ESV): "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? 'I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.'"

Reflection: What specific theological truths do you need to embrace to address the root issues in your life?

Day 5: Unity in the New Creation

In Christ, old prejudices and racism pass away, and we become united in the nature of God. The new creation eliminates divisions, making us colorblind and united in our divine purpose. This unity is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel and the new identity we have in Christ. It calls us to actively work towards reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ, breaking down barriers that divide us.

Unity in the new creation is a powerful witness to the world of God's love and grace. It shows that in Christ, we are all equal and valuable, regardless of our backgrounds or differences. This unity requires intentional effort to build relationships, understand each other's perspectives, and work towards common goals. It is a call to love and accept one another as Christ has loved and accepted us, creating a community that reflects the diversity and unity of God's kingdom. [22:24]

Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: How can you actively promote unity and reconciliation within your community, especially in areas where there are divisions or prejudices?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

In today's lesson, we delved into the profound nature of Jesus Christ and His relationship with humanity. We explored the concept of Jesus as the firstborn of a new race, a heavenly man who came into being through the virgin birth, and how this parallels our own spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit. This transformation makes us new creatures, reflecting the image of Christ not as God, but as humans filled with His spirit.

We examined several scriptures, including 2 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4:13, and Hebrews 2:5, to understand the divine purpose behind human creation. God created man to express His wonderful thoughts and realities, but the fall of Adam introduced sin, altering man's original state. Despite this, God's plan remained unbroken, with redemption through Christ bridging the gap caused by the fall. This redemption restores us to our original purpose: to reveal God in the universe.

The incarnation of Christ demonstrated the kind of man God desires—one conformed to the image of Jesus. It also removed the old man, crucified with Christ, and brought forth a new creation. This new creation is meant to express God's thoughts and mind, humbling us with the realization that we are saved not just to go to heaven, but to reveal God through our lives.

We also discussed the complexities of human nature and the various sciences that attempt to understand it, including medical science, the science of the human mind, human relations, and the science of human nature. Despite these efforts, the root of man's problems is theological, and the answers lie in the knowledge of God. The fall has left man in a state of total depravity, but through Christ, there is hope and transformation.

Finally, we touched on the issue of racism and how the new creation in Christ eliminates such divisions. In the family of God, old prejudices and racism pass away, and we become united in the nature of God. The ultimate answer to all human perplexities, including sickness and societal issues, is found in Jesus Christ.

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Key Takeaways

1. The New Creation in Christ: Through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into new creatures, reflecting the image of Christ. This transformation is not about becoming divine but about embodying the spirit of Christ as humans. This new identity calls us to live out the divine purpose of revealing God's thoughts and realities in the world. [00:49]
2. Redemption and Restoration: The fall of man introduced sin and altered our original state, but God's plan for humanity remained unbroken. Redemption through Christ bridges the gap caused by the fall, restoring us to our original purpose. This redemption is not just about personal salvation but about fulfilling God's eternal plan to reveal Himself through us. [04:47]
3. The Kind of Man God Desires: The incarnation of Christ serves as a model for the kind of man God desires—one conformed to the image of Jesus. This transformation involves the crucifixion of the old man and the birth of a new creation. Our lives are meant to express God's thoughts and mind, humbling us with the realization of our divine purpose. [05:31]
4. Theological Roots of Human Problems: Despite advancements in various sciences, the root of man's problems is theological. The fall has left man in a state of total depravity, affecting every aspect of his being. The answers to these problems lie in the knowledge of God and the transformative power of Christ. [09:25]
5. Unity in the New Creation: In Christ, old prejudices and racism pass away, and we become united in the nature of God. The new creation eliminates divisions, making us colorblind and united in our divine purpose. This unity is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel and the new identity we have in Christ. [22:24]
### [22:24]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:49] - Introduction to the New Race
[01:40] - Scriptural Foundations
[02:25] - Purpose of Human Creation
[03:03] - The Fall and Its Consequences
[04:02] - Man's Transformation Post-Fall
[04:47] - Redemption and God's Plan
[05:31] - The Incarnation of Christ
[06:07] - The New Creation in Christ
[07:02] - Expressing God's Thoughts
[08:06] - The Imperfect Knowledge of Man
[09:25] - Theological Roots of Human Problems
[13:05] - The Science of Human Relations
[15:12] - Human Nature and Sin
[18:00] - The Necessity of Being Born Again
[22:24] - Unity in the New Creation
[23:35] - Christ as the Ultimate Answer
[25:01] - Conclusion and Blessing

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

According to 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, what experience does Paul describe, and how does it relate to the concept of being "in Christ"? [00:49]
In Ephesians 4:13, what is the ultimate goal for believers as described by Paul? [01:40]
Hebrews 2:5 mentions that the world to come is not subjected to angels but to whom? [01:40]
How does the sermon describe the transformation of man post-fall and the role of redemption? [04:47]

Interpretation Questions

What does it mean to be a "new creature" in Christ according to the sermon and 2 Corinthians 12:2-4? How does this new identity affect our daily lives? [00:49]
How does Ephesians 4:13's call to unity and maturity in faith challenge our current spiritual growth and community life?
The sermon mentions that the fall of man introduced sin and altered our original state. How does this theological perspective help us understand human nature and our need for redemption? [04:47]
How does the concept of the new creation in Christ address and eliminate divisions such as racism, as discussed in the sermon? [22:24]

Application Questions

Reflect on your own spiritual rebirth. How have you experienced the transformation into a new creature in Christ? What changes have you noticed in your life? [00:49]
Ephesians 4:13 speaks about reaching the "measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." What practical steps can you take to grow in your faith and maturity this week?
The sermon emphasizes that our purpose is to reveal God's thoughts and realities in the world. How can you actively live out this purpose in your daily interactions and decisions? [07:02]
Considering the theological roots of human problems, how can you deepen your knowledge of God to address personal and societal issues you face? [09:25]
The sermon discusses the elimination of old prejudices and racism in the new creation. How can you contribute to fostering unity and eliminating divisions within your church and community? [22:24]
Reflect on a time when you faced a significant problem. How did your understanding of redemption and restoration through Christ help you navigate that situation? [04:47]
The sermon mentions that the ultimate answer to all human perplexities is found in Jesus Christ. How can you practically apply this truth to a current challenge you are facing? [23:35]

Sermon Clips

1. "Man was created. That all the wonderful thoughts and realities of God. Could be expressed through him. That's the reason God made us. We've run off in a lot of tangents. Religion has produced a lot of foolishness. But God created us. For that one purpose. I've already demonstrated. That had Adam the first man. Stayed with God. Then this earth. Would be full of the knowledge of God. He chose the devil. And therefore has filled the earth. With the knowledge of Satan." [02:25] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The first creation. Through Adam failed in the testing. In the fall. Man became an altogether different species. Man was created by God. Spirit. Soul. Body. That was the order and function. Of his being. But in the fall. Man's spirit died. When he sinned. That spirit of man. Was so violated. That it sank down. In subjection. To the soul. Now man is no longer a spirit man. But a soulish man. Living in that orbit. Of what he could see. Smell. Feel. Touch. And taste." [03:33] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Redemption bridged that gap. And with a new creation. Set man back. On the purpose of God. That through him. God. Could be revealed. In this universe. Redemption. Restored. The purpose of God. Now the fall of man. Brought about a new intervention. Of God. In the person. Of his son. The incarnation. Of Christ. In the name. Of Christ. Into human nature. Accomplished several things." [04:47] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Jesus Christ. Is the one. We're to be conformed to. He. Is what. He is. What. All of us. Ultimately. To be. But second. That intervention. Removed. The kind of a man. That God. Does not. Desire. We. Were. Buried. With. Him. We. Were. Buried. Into. His. Death. The. Old. Man. And. His. Affections. Was. Crucified." [05:53] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Man. Came. From. The. Hand. Of. God. Therefore. All. Of. His. Problems. Are. Theological. And. The. Answers. Are. Only. In. The. Knowledge. Of. God. What. A. Truth. To. Take. A. Hold. To. Man. I. Came. From. God. My. Problems. Are. Theological. The. Answer. To. Every. Problem. Of. My. Life. Is. In. The. Knowledge. Of. God." [09:25] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "Man. Believes. That. He. Evolved. From. A. Lower. Form. Of. Life. And. That. Environment. Determine. The. Evolving. The. Science. Of. Human. Nature. Believes. That. You. Can. Change. Man. By. Changes. His. Environment. The. First. Urban. Renewal. In. This. Country. Was. In. To. A. Beautiful. Place. Clean. Sidewalks. Everything. New. A. Billion. Dollars. Well. I. Remember. The. Television. The. March. What. A. Day. All. Cremels. Are. To. Be. Changed." [15:40] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Religion. Can. Change. Him. He. Must. Be. Born. Again. Wherever. You. Find. The. Old. Man. He. Is. The. Same. It. Doesn't. Matter. If. We're. All. Made. Sinners. This. Is. The. Truth. That. Has. Been. Lost. In. The. Gospel. Today. We. Try. To. Think. That. Some. People. Are. Better. Than. Others. The. Potential. Of. It. All. Is. In. That. Human. Being. Without. God. The. Works. Of. The. Flesh. Murder. Fornication. Adultery. Emulation. Strife. Hatred. Sorcery. On. Down. The. Line." [18:00] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "The. Bible. Told. Us. That. That's. What. Man. Is. Totally. Depraved. In. His. Affections. In. His. Conscience. In. His. Thinking. In. His. Action. Totally. That. Is. Man. That. Is. The. World. Of. Human. Mankind. All. Of. This. Came. In. With. Man. The. More. Man. Has. Labored. With. These. Problems. The. Worse. They. Have. Become. God. Says. Man's. Problems. Are. With. Perplexity. That. Is. They. Are. Beyond. Himself. Man. In. Himself. Is. Hopelessly. Caught. In. A. Web. And. Cannot. Extricate. Himself." [19:20] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Wherever. A. Man. Is. Born. Again. There's. No. Racism. In. That. Man. God. Will. Deal. With. That. Whenever. A. Man. Is. Always. The. Same. Some. Have. Progressed. Other. Than. Others. They've. In. It. Longer. Or. They've. Had. More. Opportunity. Been. Influenced. By. Perhaps. More. True. Preaching. Of. The. Gospel. And. They've. Advanced. Father. But. All. By. Nature. Are. The. Same. This. Is. The. Answer. There. Are. No. Racist. In. The. Family. Of. God." [22:24] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Jesus. Christ. Is. To. The. Answer. Is. The. Answer. The. Only. Answer. To. All. The. Perplexities. Of. Life. The. Government. Here. In. America. Course. This. Is. An. International. School. It. Will. Be. Taught. In. A. Lot. Of. Places. But. In. America. We. Have. A. Program. That. Spreads. To. Many. Parts. Of. The. Called. Teen. Challenge. Is. Dealing. With. Drug. Addicts. And. The. Such. Like. The. Government. Made. A. Five. Million. Dollar. Study. Of. That. Program. And. They. Found. That. Was. 86%. Successful." [23:28] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?