Number 27 Topic: Embracing Newness in Christ By M. S. Stephens Text: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Introduction: Good morning/afternoon, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I want to speak to you about a concept foundational to our Christian faith: newness. We often hear about new beginnings, life, and transformation, but what does embracing the newness of our relationship with Jesus Christ mean? Scripture Reading Let’s begin by reading from 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 1. The Promise of Newness In this verse, Paul tells us that anyone in Christ is a new creation. This promise of newness is not just a superficial change but a profound transformation of our very being. Illustration: Think of a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. The caterpillar doesn't change its appearance; it becomes a new creature. Similarly, when we come to Christ, we undergo a spiritual metamorphosis. 2. Letting Go of the Old To embrace the new, we must be willing to let go of the old. This involves repentance and turning away from our past sins and failures. Scripture Reference: Ephesians 4:22-24 says, “You were taught, about 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.” Application: Letting go of the old might mean forgiving someone who has wronged you, giving up a harmful habit, or simply changing your mindset from defeat to hope. 3. Living in Newness Once we have let go of the old, we are called to live in the newness of life that Christ offers. This new life is characterised by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—what the Bible calls the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Illustration: Imagine receiving a brand-new car. You wouldn’t continue to walk everywhere; you would use that new car to its full potential. In the same way, we must fully embrace and live out the new life we have been given in Christ. 4. Newness in Community Our newness in Christ also calls us to build new relationships and community. The church is where we support and encourage each other in our walk with Christ. Scripture Reference: Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Application: Being part of a community means actively participating in the church's life, serving others, and building each other up in faith. 5. The Hope of Eternal Newness Finally, the newness we experience now is just a foretaste of the eternal newness we will experience in heaven. Revelation 21:5 tells us, “He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’” This is our ultimate hope in Christ—eternal life with Him in a new heaven and a new earth. Conclusion As we conclude, let us remember that newness in Christ is not a one-time event but a continual process of growth and transformation. Let us embrace this newness with joy and live out our faith boldly and lovingly. Prayer Let’s pray: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for our new life in Christ. Help us to let go of our old ways and fully embrace the newness You offer. May we live each day in the light of Your love and grace, and may our lives reflect the transformation You have worked within us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. Go forth this week and embrace the newness that God has given you. God bless you all.