Galatians 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. I. LET US EXAMINE WHAT IS IMPLIED IN "A NEW CREATURE." Four explanatory questions may, be asked upon this subject. 1. In what sense is a Christian a new creature? Is it a physical or a moral one? It is only a moral one. New faculties are not given him; but his faculties have new qualities and applications. Compare Paul after his conversion with Paul before his conversion: his body and soul, his learning and abilities, and the ardour of his disposition, continued the same; and yet, was there ever a being so different? 2. How far does this change extend? A new creed, or a new denomination, does not make a man a new creature. The new creation is not a change from vicious to virtuous only; but from natural to spiritual, from earthly to heavenly, from walking by sight to walking by faith. 3. Is this work produced instantaneously, or is it gradually advanced to perfection? Scripture describes Christians as going "from strength to strength:" as "renewed day by day:" as "changed into the same image, from glory to glory." 4. Who is the Author of this new creation? Creation is a work of omnipotence, and belongs exclusively to God. II. OBSERVE WHAT IS TO BE INFERRED FROM ITS UNRIVALLED IMPORTANCE. And, "if in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature," this should regulate your inquiries — your prayers — your praise — your esteem, and your zeal. (W. Jay.) Parallel Verses KJV: For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.WEB: For in Christ Jesus neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. |
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