Abundant Life and Loving God

The Bible makes it clear that we’re supposed to be transformed into New Creations made in the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17 and Ephesian 4:20-24). This transformation occurs in our minds and our hearts. However, many American Christians don’t seem to understand this foundational fact. In fact, a strange thing has happened to many Americans. Because of our fiercely independent culture and our desire to make everyone feel good about themselves, we have become almost proud of our faults. It’s not uncommon for somebody to say or do something cruel, and then justify it by saying “That’s just the way I am” or “That’s just the way God made me.” This view that we can’t change our bad character is lazy and completely opposed to Christianity. In reality, the great news of Christ’s coming is that we can be transformed into New Creations! You may be thinking, “How can this be? I have never heard this before.” Let me prove it to you. Generally, the title of a book is very important, right? It is designed to convey the primary topic of the book in a few words. The portion of the Bible dealing with Christ and His teachings is called the “New Testament.” Do you know what “New Testament” means? Most American Christians don’t know, and it clearly demonstrates how far the church leadership has strayed when we don’t even know the title of our Bible! Another word for “testament” is “covenant.” Well, the “New Covenant” is revealed to mankind in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ezekiel 11:19 when God says that He will “put His law within us and write it on our hearts” and “replace our stone hearts with hearts of flesh.” Jesus fulfilled this covenant by sending the Holy Spirit to live within us and transform us into New Creations. We are supposed to change such that we no longer have to try to follow God’s rules and commandments because we no longer have the desires to break His rules! We simply will not disrespect God or other people or their property. We will work to protect those who are being harmed and abused even if it requires conflict and sacrifice – just like Jesus did! Isn’t it exciting that this kind of change is possible with Christ!