A New Nature in Christ

Focus: Colossians 3:12 (KJV)"Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;"

Ephesians 4:17-24

The Blueprint Restored

When God first created humanity, we were designed to reflect His goodness and loving-kindness. Though sin corrupted that original design, God provided a "divine formula" through Jesus Christ to ransom us. Being born again is more than a title; it is a total departure from old, worldly behaviors and the adoption of a new nature. Just as we change our clothes, we are called to "shed the old man" and put on the character of Christ.

The Danger of Surface Change

Authentic transformation goes deeper than joining a community. Consider Simon the Sorcerer: he heard the Gospel and joined the early believers, but his heart remained anchored in his old ways. He viewed the Holy Spirit as merchandise rather than a divine gift, proving that true regeneration requires a change in behavior, not just a change in association. A believer who continues to bear the "works of the flesh" shows that the link to the God of Love is not yet fully forged.

Living as Heaven's Ambassadors

Our lives are the evidence of our faith; as the Word says, "by their fruits, you shall know them." To be an Ambassador of God, we must operate in the tenets of the Spirit: mercy, humility, and patience. When these traits are present, we confirm our identity as God’s holy and beloved children.

Prayer

May the Almighty God convert your spiritual DNA from the patterns of the past to the likeness of the Holy Spirit today. In the name of Jesus, I decree that every behavior making you appear alien to God's heritage is separated from you now, in Jesus’ name. May your mind and heart be completely renewed by the Spirit of God from this day forward, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.