One day Jesus will right every wrong and create a new earth; a new order will replace the old order, polluted by sin. . . . Jesus makes “all things new” right now [which] is talked about by Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation; the old way is passing away and all things are becoming new.” We don’t have to wait for the 2nd Coming; we can be made new now. Salvation is Paradise restored--a return to the Garden--as the curse of the Fall is reversed in us, and we are restored to our intended status as God’s children…and the Holy Spirit begins His work of ongoing renovation in our lives (sanctification). When we trust Christ our sins are forgiven, and this new heavenly process begins in us. Our salvation is something Jesus has done, is doing and will do. Renewal is not a hollow word for believers. The newness Jesus brings about has many facets…
- By His sacrifice, we have new birth.
- By His grace, He’s given us a new outlook and way of life.
- By His love we have a new relationship; we are God’s children and friends.
- By His power we have a new freedom; we are no longer enslaved to sin but set free.
- By His Spirit we have a new heart; we are dead to sin and alive in Christ.
- By His word we have a new direction, one that leads to Heaven.
- By His promises we have a new confidence; fears are gone.
- By His authority we have a new security, assurance of salvation.
- By His church we have new resources for spiritual growth.
- By His wisdom we have a new purpose, meaning, and reason for living.
- By His sovereignty God makes all things new!
I would add to Bob's thoughts . . . these are but a part of what God is and has been doing in those who believe in Him. May we not become paralyzed due to unbelief, an unbelief that ignores the grand work of grace begun at salvation and continued through that same grace (Titus 2:11-14). Far more was accomplished in our redemption than most Christians are aware.
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