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Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Listen: 2 Corinthians 5

Paul constantly preaches and writes about Jesus and the gospel. He teaches that all have sinned and are alienated from God. Yet, Jesus died in humanity’s place to pay the penalty for sin. What’s more, to all who trust in him, Jesus gives his righteousness before God. Paul wants his readers to understand this and root their lives in this new reality and identity. This new identity should change everything and empower them to live in a new way.

The same is true today. The gospel holds the power to completely transform everything about us. Only the gospel could transform us from chasing after our own desires and hurting others along the way into a flourishing influence that builds others up. God wants us to influence others by giving them a taste of God’s grace, hope, peace and love as they interact with us. This kind of transformation does not happen by simply trying harder or doing more. It’s about returning again and again to what Jesus has done for us and fundamentally being transformed by his love and sacrifice through the power of the Holy Spirit.

TODAY: Reflect on the role of the gospel in your life. Consider if there is a step you need to take to root yourself more in the gospel. If you have never accepted the gift of Christ’s death on your behalf, reach out to us at btw@adabible.org. We would love to talk with you.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read 1 Samuel 30-31. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider David’s victories over his enemies.