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Second Corinthians 5:17 is a well-known verse in Christian circles, often learned from childhood: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (NKJV). The Message Bible adds an enthusiastic touch: “The old life is gone; a new life emerges!”
What is the significance of the fact that “old things have passed away”? This verse goes beyond rote Sunday school teachings; it is a reality for the sincere believer. Those who place their faith in the redemptive work of Christ undergo a spiritual transformation by the Holy Spirit. The Bible refers to this as being “born again” (John 3:3-7). Theologians use the term regeneration to describe this remarkable act. We transitioned from death to life!
The life of an unbeliever is characterized by what the apostle Paul refers to as “old things.” Unbelievers possess a sinful nature and are separated from God, a destructive combination. Consequently, their lifestyle reflects the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). While atheists may exhibit basic moral values—depending on upbringing and environment—they primarily live for themselves rather than for God.
Moreover, religious individuals who are unregenerate cannot speak of an old life passing away. They are under the law and seek justification through it. This leaves them condemned when they fall short (Romans 3:19;Galatians 3:10). Without the new birth, they remain slaves to sin (Romans 7:14-23). Being religious without Christ leads to either despair or self-righteousness. One who lives under the law should also anticipate being
Being perfectly judged by it. God is a just judge (Psalms 9:7-8;98:9;Romans 2:6-11;Revelation 20:12).
However, for those who believe in Christ, old things have indeed passed away! Paul provides this description in Romans 6:3–7:
Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
