New Life

2 Corinthians 5:17-21

1. New creation - new life. Not reformed, not re-educated, not just improved. Like something exists that did not exist before. Re-created, like a new creature. We are a new creation. We have a new beginning; a new existence.

We have a new source of energy and power to live by the Holy Spirit who indwells us.

We are under a new covenant with God - we stood condemned under the OT Law because of our sin, now we are under grace.

Because of Jesus' work on the cross and his victory over death, all of creation is being and will be renewed.

The affect of sin by Adam was devastating, affecting every generation of man and corrupting all of creation.

The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus has a universal impact. He is bringing life to the dead. sight to blind eyes. new life to dead, broken lives. new hope to lost people. New purpose to the wanderer.

You have new life, new power to live a godly and meaningful life. New standing with God. Before, you and I were condemned. God's holiness demanded the highest standards and we were so far short that we were ashamed, hiding, feeling the weight of our guilt.

1. God reconciled us to himself through Christ. We were far from God, farther than we know, condemned before him. But God made an exchange - Christ's death for our lives. Christ's holiness for our sin.

We have a new relationship with God. based on his grace.

We once stood condemned, but now we stand reconciled, not guilty but righteous.

1. As part of this new life, we receive new purpose, to be a part in God's reconciliation of sinners.

We have new purpose in life; to be a part of God's purpose to reconcile and plan to bring life to those around us.

1. We have a new role, a new opportunity to offer ourselves to something bigger than ourselves. To do something greater than to live this life.

Psalm‬ ‭119‬:‭88‬ In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

We have a new ministry and a message: "God is reconciling with sinners."

1. We have new righteousness from God.