The New Man
(Ephesians 4:24)
By putting off the old man and putting on the new man, our lives initiate a journey for a new change. The change in those who are saved is not confined to a legal, status, or spiritual change; it becomes specifically evident throughout one’s entire life, eventually leading to a change in behavior.
1. Created according to God
A new man is the one created according to God, or in other words, created in the image of God. Jesus Christ is the image of God, who has revealed God’s goodness and compassion. Those who accept the light from His face into their hearts begin to manifest the inner personality of Christ within themselves. The new self, created in the image of God, is one who resembles the inner nature of Christ, which is to say, one who resembles God.
2. Created in Righteousness and Holiness
Resembling God means being created in righteousness and holiness. Righteousness and holiness are the nature of a new man. Righteousness is the dignity that should be kept in relationships with others. Humility, compassion, meekness, love, tolerance, and sacrifice! While such qualities are often difficult to find in the world, a change toward these natures becomes remarkably evident in the new man. Holiness is manifested in one’s relationship with God. Those who follow holiness do not disregard God but serve Him truthfully. They acknowledge God’s sovereignty and offers themselves to Him.
3. Created for the Good Work
Creating the new man is God’s work. However, this creation is completed through our faith and observance. We are created in Jesus Christ for good works. When those who are tempted by sin resist it and offer themselves to good works, God is glorified. Let us overcome the bondage of sin and strive to become more like God. Let us unite our hearts so that our church may manifest God’s nature.
August 18, 2024
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
