Christian Identity #4 – New Point of Reference – (B) New Spiritual Nature

Key Scriptures Highlighted in the Message

1. 2 Corinthians 5:17
   “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

   • This verse underpins the core idea of spiritual rebirth and transformation, affirming the death of the old self and the birth of a new identity.

2. Galatians 2:19-20
   “For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…”

   • Highlights the spiritual death to the law (old ways) and new life empowered by Christ living within.

3. 2 Peter 1:3-10
   “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness… if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall never fall.”

   • Emphasizes the divine provision for godly living and spiritual fruitfulness, and the promise of stability to those who diligently cultivate spiritual virtues.

4. Romans 6:1-4
   “How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?… Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we should walk in newness of life.”

   • Connects baptism as a symbol of dying to the old self and rising to a renewed life in Christ.

5. John 6:51
   “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.”

   • Symbolizes the sustenance believers receive through the Word of God, enabling eternal life.

6. 1 Peter 1:3
   “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

   • Focuses on the new, living hope believers have through Christ’s resurrection.

Major Takeaways from the Message

1. Your Old Self is Dead; You are a New Creation in Christ
   Understanding that your previous sinful nature has been crucified with Christ is vital. The “old things” are passed away; spiritually, you have died to sin and live now by faith in the Son of God. This new identity empowers you to overcome sin’s dominion.

2. Spiritual Growth Requires a Paradigm Shift in Thinking
   Instead of focusing on visible conditions, believers need to focus on their position in Christ—an identity as blood-washed, saved, forgiven children of God. This shift influences how you think and act, impacting your response to trials and challenges.

3. God’s Promises and Divine Power Are Available to Live a Holy Life
   The divine power through knowledge of Christ equips believers to cultivate godly virtues (faith, temperance, patience, charity). Diligently practicing these assures you will “never fall,” debunking the myth that continual sin is inevitable.

4. Baptism Symbolizes Death to the Old and Resurrection to the New Life
   Baptism is more than a ritual; it symbolizes being buried with Christ to old ways and raised to walk in newness of life. This act is a public declaration of belonging to Christ, not the flesh.

5. Christ Lives Within You—You are a Co-Laborer with God
   God is not working through us passively; believers are actively laborers, working with Christ. This demands constant communication with God through prayer and scripture, ensuring obedience and alignment with Christ’s will.