The concept of the new nature is foundational to the Christian faith, emphasizing the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. As Paul articulates in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This profound change signifies not merely a reformation of behavior but a radical renewal of the heart and mind, aligning with the teachings found in Ephesians 4:22-24, where believers are called to put off the old self and put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Furthermore, in 1 Peter 2:9, we are reminded of our identity as a chosen race, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation, underscoring the dignity and purpose bestowed upon those who have embraced their new nature in Christ. Jesus also emphasizes this transformation in John 3:3, declaring that one must be born again to see the kingdom of God. As believers embrace their new identity, they are empowered to live out their faith authentically, reflecting the character of Christ and engaging in the mission of the Gospel, as highlighted in Galatians 2:20, where Paul states, "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." Thus, the new nature is not only a theological concept but a lived reality that shapes the believer's life and witness.
In this sermon, the apostle discusses five things that believers should lay aside: malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking. These behaviors are seen as manifestations of our old nature inherited from Adam and Satan. The apostle emphasizes that believers have been born again and are now chi
Miles J. Stanford emphasizes the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within believers, creating a disdain for the old nature and a longing for the new nature. He highlights the importance of rejecting the old self to embrace the new self in Christ, emphasizing the need for a testimony that relies