TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Ezekiel 11:17-20

“…and he shall direct thy paths.”

A NEW CREATURE

A genuine work of the Spirit takes a person through three essential stages:

(a) Conviction and Cleansing of Sin. Ezekiel 11:18 says, “… and they shall take away all the detestable things thereof and all the abominations…” The Apostle Peter exhorted the Jews on the day of Pentecost, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38). Salvation is by “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21). Only the Holy Spirit can lead a person to conviction of sin and repentance toward God.

(b) Hearts of Stone are Changed to Hearts of Flesh. To those who come in repentance the Lord says, “I will take the stony heart ... and will give them an heart of flesh” (Ezek 11:19). Mere outward show without change of heart is play-acting and hypocrisy. God hates hypocrisy. Only God the Holy Spirit can change hearts. When the Spirit has done that, there is a change of disposition -- a new affection of intellect, will and emotion toward God. This means a new loyalty and allegiance.

(c) “Old things are passed away…” This is the acid test of those who wear the “born again” label. Their claim must be set against their lifestyle: their talk must be matched by their walk. God’s Word plainly states: “…they shall take away all the detestable things… thereof and all the abominations thereof…” (Ezek 11:18). “Holy Spirit Renewal” professors must prove themselves by changed lives, “old things are passed away … all things are become new.” So must everyone who calls himself a born again Christian. Mere lip profession means nothing.

Only the Holy Spirit can make you a new creature.

THOUGHT: Have I gone through the three stages?
PRAYER: Lord, help me daily to put off the old man with his deeds and put on the new man, after the image of Christ.