2 Corinthians 5:17

 BIBLE VERSE

2 Corinthians 5:17

So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.

2 Corinthians 5:17

 * WHAT DOES IT SAY?

 * If a person is "in Christ," they are a "new creation" (17a).

 * The "old things have passed away" for this new creation (17b).

 * "Behold, new things have come" for the person who is in Christ (17c).

 * WHAT QUESTIONS DO I HAVE ABOUT WHAT IT SAYS?

a) Historical Context

 * Who was Paul writing to in the city of Corinth, and what was their spiritual background?

 * How would the concept of a "new creation" have been understood by people in the first century, especially those from Jewish and Greco-Roman backgrounds?

b) Cultural Context

 * What were some of the "old things" in the Corinthian culture that would have passed away for new believers?

 * How would this idea of transformation challenge the way people in Corinth viewed their identity and social status?

c) Theological Context

 * What does it mean to be "in Christ," and how does one achieve this state?

 * How is this concept of a "new creation" related to other biblical themes like regeneration, sanctification, and justification?

d) Literary Context

 * How does this verse fit into the broader argument of 2 Corinthians, particularly the surrounding verses in chapter 5 about ministry and reconciliation?

 * What is the significance of the word "behold" (or "look!")? What does it draw the reader's attention to?

e) Life Application

 * What are the "old things" in my life that I struggle to let go of?

 * What are the "new things" that God wants to bring into my life as a new creation?

 * WHAT DOES THE TEXT MEAN?

a) Understanding the propositions made in the text

The text proposes a radical transformation that occurs when someone enters into a relationship with Jesus Christ. This is not a superficial change but a complete renewal of one's identity. The old self, with its sinful nature and past life, is gone. In its place is a new person, created by God and living for Him. The text's use of "new creation" speaks to a divine act, not merely human effort.

b) Answering the questions

The Corinthian church was a diverse group, including both Jews and Gentiles who were struggling with internal conflicts and external pressures. Paul's message of a "new creation" would have been a powerful reminder that their identity was no longer rooted in their past—whether as a Jew under the law or a Gentile in a pagan culture—but in Christ alone. To be "in Christ" means to be united with Him through faith, sharing in His death and resurrection. The old things are the life of sin and separation from God, which have now been replaced with new life, new purpose, and new righteousness in Christ. The word "behold" emphasizes the visible, tangible reality of this change, a transformation that should be evident in the believer's life.

 * HOW DOES THE TEXT APPLY TO ME?

This verse challenges me to examine my own life and see if the evidence of being a "new creation" is present. Am I holding onto old habits, old ways of thinking, or past hurts that should have passed away? The text encourages me to surrender these "old things" to God and actively embrace the "new things" He has for me. This means living a life that reflects my new identity in Christ, seeking to grow in holiness, and allowing God to work in and through me. It's a reminder that my past does not define me, but my future is defined by my relationship with Christ.

PRAYER/RESPONSE

Heavenly Father, I confess that I often cling to the "old things"—the fears, doubts, and anxieties from my past. I worry about what others think and I struggle to let go of old habits. Please help me to truly believe that when I am in Christ, I am a new creation. May I surrender the old and embrace the new life you have given me. Give me the strength and courage to live as a new creation, with new thoughts, new actions, and a new hope. Amen.