Welcome to episode 204 of Grasp the Bible.  In this episode, we continue our three-week series on our identity in Christ.  Today, we explore the realities of our being a new creation, based on 2 Corinthians 5:17. 

Key takeaways: 

• When you come to faith in Christ, you don't just become a slightly improved version of your old self—you become a fundamentally different kind of being. 
• We died with Christ, were buried with Christ, and were raised with Christ. This isn't something we're striving to accomplish; it's something that has already happened spiritually when we placed our faith in Jesus. 
• Our progress in holiness is motivated by both who we already are and who we will ultimately become. 

Quotable: 

• Becoming a new creation is not rehabilitation; it's resurrection. 

Application: 

• Your old self is dead. That's a fact. Now live accordingly.  This is where many Christians get stuck. We look at our ongoing struggles and conclude, "Well, I must not really be a new creation yet. Maybe when I finally overcome this sin, then I'll be transformed." But this gets the order exactly backward. We don't behave our way into a new identity; we believe our way into new behavior.  
• So, how do we begin to live in light of our new creation reality? Let me suggest three practical steps:  
• First, know the truth. Spend time studying what Scripture says about your new identity in Christ.  
• Second, replace lies with truth. Identify the false narratives you've believed about yourself. 
• Third, practice new creation habits.  Consciously give God access to your time, your thoughts, your relationships, and your resources. 

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