2 Corinthians 5:17

Context

In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul defends his apostleship and says that the love of Christ "constraineth" him (v. 14). Because Christ died for all, Paul says that henceforth he knows no one "after the flesh" (v. 16), and in verse 17 he states the consequence. Verses 18–21 go on to declare that God has reconciled the world to himself through Christ and has given Paul "the ministry of reconciliation."

Interpretation

• As individual new birth: On this reading, the verse means that a person united with Christ becomes a new person, renewed inwardly. In the evangelical tradition it is a classic text for explaining conversion and the new birth (John 3:3).
• As the beginning of the new creation: Translated literally, the original reads "if anyone in Christ, new creation," with no verb. It can therefore be rendered not only as "he is a new creature" but also as "there is a new creation." On this reading, the verse means that in Christ God's new creation—the new heavens and new earth spoken of in Isaiah 65:17—has already begun, and that the believer has entered into it. Proponents also cite Galatians 6:15 in support.
• As a change of perspective: Some interpreters, reading the verse together with verse 16, place the emphasis on a transformed way of seeing—one that no longer regards others or Christ by worldly standards.

Questions of Application

A question arises over how to reconcile the perfect-tense declaration that "all things are become new" with the reality that believers still struggle with sin. The Reformed tradition explains that the believer's status has been made new, while sanctification is a lifelong process; the Wesleyan tradition places greater emphasis on real transformation by the Holy Spirit and the possibility of entire sanctification. Some pastors also caution that the verse should not be used to cover over past wounds or responsibilities.

In the Korean Church

The verse is frequently used at baptismal services and in testimonies, and as a motto for the first worship service of the new year and for New Year's Eve watch-night services.

Related Passages

• Galatians 6:15
• Isaiah 65:17
• John 3:3–5
• Ephesians 4:22–24