So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 NABRE
Paul writes this second letter to the community at Corinth to defend himself against some accusations and to reestablish his relationship with the community. Paul in the first half of the letter discusses his apostleship and what he sees as his role in ministry. In the section of the letter with the quoted verse Paul shares the compelling love of Christ Jesus and the far-reaching implications of his death and resurrection. Paul speaks of Christ dying for all and in so doing those baptized in Christ will no longer live for themselves but live for Christ who has raised all to life. We are challenged to commit our lives wholeheartedly to Christ. This is a self-giving love, not seeking our own benefit but the benefit of the many. Paul addresses Christ as a new creation passing over the old things. In the old age, or old covenant the community, the Hebrew people, saw others as outsiders. In the new age, new covenant, bought through Christ death and resurrection, distinguishes the new age by allowing all to belong. Christ brings new things to the baptized, exceeding human ability, things only He could achieve; a new heart, a new ability to love God, a new way to bring God’s Kingdom on earth as well as a joining in Jesus ministry.
Christ opens up the Kingdom for all, it is available for us to choose. In choosing we must dedicate our lives to Jesus’ ministry, putting others first, seeking love toward others, particularly others who have welcomed becoming a new creation in Christ. We become the ministers that expand and grow Christ’s new age. Through our work may this New Year, 2019, bring Christ’s Kingdom to all!
Are you aware of your newness in Christ? Can you live to bring Christ to others?
Christ opens up the Kingdom for all, for us to choose. Choosing we must dedicate our life to Jesus’ ministry, put others first, love others, particularly others who have welcomed becoming a new creation in Christ. Click To Tweet#bible #godisgreat #jesus #christianity#dailybibleverse @youversion #new #Christ#love #Paul #everybodyalways #god#jesuschrist #jesussaves #godisgood#dailydevotion #biblestudy #scripture#bibleverse #verseoftheday #pray #prayer#goodnews #loveeachother #godisgreat#bocaraton #youversion #everythingalways