God Makes All Things New [A New Identity] Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon explores the transformative power of Christ in making believers into new people. Jonathan emphasizes that through salvation, Christians are not merely improved versions of their old selves, but completely new creations. Using passages from 2 Corinthians 5, Romans 6, and Ephesians 4, he explains that our old sinful nature has died with Christ and we now have a new identity as children of God. The message challenges believers to stop living trapped in old patterns of sin and instead embrace their new nature by actively throwing off their former way of life and putting on the righteousness and holiness that God has created them to have.

Jonathan uses the analogy of cavers who get stuck in caves only to return to them again, comparing this to how Christians sometimes revert to old sinful patterns despite being freed from sin. He emphasizes that believers are no longer defined by their past mistakes or shame, but by their relationship with Christ. The transformation is not about behavior modification but heart transformation, requiring daily intentional choices to live according to their new identity in Christ, becoming more like Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging that You are the God who makes all things new. As we gather together today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to be receptive to Your Spirit's leading and to see ourselves as You see us… not defined by our past, but as new creations in Christ. Lord, we pray that this time together would draw us closer to You and to one another. Give us ears to hear Your voice and the courage to respond to Your call on our lives. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker
What's one thing you've always wanted to try but have been too afraid or hesitant to attempt?

Key Verses

• 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, 17
• Romans 6:4-7
• Ephesians 4:21-24
• Romans 12:2
• Colossians 3:10
• 2 Corinthians 3:16-18

Questions

• What does it mean to you personally that 'the old life is gone and a new life has begun' according to 2 Corinthians 5:17?
• Jonathan mentioned that we often wear name tags that say 'Hello, my name is shame' or 'Hello, my name is regret.' What would your new name tag say as a child of God?
• How does understanding that you're not just an 'improved version' of your old self, but a completely new creation, change your perspective on personal growth and transformation?
• What are some 'old patterns' or 'caves' that you find yourself returning to even after God has set you free?
• Romans 6:6 says we are 'no longer slaves to sin.' What does freedom from sin look like in practical, everyday life?
• The sermon mentioned that transformation requires 'throwing off' the old nature and 'putting on' the new nature. What specific steps can we take to actively participate in this process?
• How can we help each other remember our true identity in Christ when we're tempted to define ourselves by our past mistakes?
• What role does the Holy Spirit play in renewing our thoughts and attitudes, and how can we become more sensitive to His leading in our daily lives?

Life Application
This week, identify one specific area where you've been living according to your 'old nature’; whether it's a thought pattern, habit, or way of responding to situations. Each morning, consciously choose to 'throw off' this old pattern and 'put on' your new nature in Christ. When you catch yourself reverting to the old way, remind yourself: 'That's not who I am anymore. I am a new creation in Christ.' Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live according to your true identity as a child of God.

Key Takeaways

• In Christ, we are not improved versions of our old selves, but completely new creations with a transformed identity
• Our old sinful nature has died with Christ, and we are no longer slaves to sin but free to live in righteousness
• We are not defined by our past mistakes or shame, but by our relationship with Christ as children of God
• Living as new creations requires daily, intentional choices to throw off old patterns and put on our new nature
• True transformation comes through the Holy Spirit renewing our minds and attitudes, not through our own efforts alone

Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for the incredible truth that You have made us new in Christ. We are amazed by Your love and grace that not only forgives our sins but completely transforms our identity. Help us to walk in the reality of who we are in You; not returning to the old caves of sin and shame, but living freely as Your beloved children. Give us strength to make daily choices that reflect our new nature, and help us to see ourselves and others through Your eyes of love. When we stumble, remind us that Your grace is sufficient and Your love never fails. Transform us more and more into the image of Jesus, and use our new lives to bring hope and healing to others. In Christ's precious name we pray, Amen.