The New Man (5)

Memory Verse: “And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” Acts 24:16.

Bible Passages: Luke 19:1-10; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20.
Introduction

LAST week, in this series, we learnt that the New Man is a powerful minister bringing forth abundant fruit just like our Lord Jesus Christ, Who is our ultimate role model. Today, we will mention other prominent features of the new man.
Restitution

The New Man will experience an irrepressible desire from the very depth of his being to undo or correct every wrong and sin ever committed. The feeling can sometimes be so deep and overwhelming that it might bring forth tears of regret. Restitution in essence is a mark of true repentance. It involves restoration of what has been damaged or lost or stolen. It covers any act or omission that robs the New Man of a clear conscience before man and God – Lev. 6:1-7, Lk. 19:8, Pro. 28:13, Acts 24:16. The New Man is not rash on this issue but rather absolutely dependent on the Holy Spirit for direction and guidance. Rashness may lead to emotional thoughtless acts of foolishness, Eccl. 5:2, Pro. 29:20. The wisdom of God guides the New Man. Wisdom is the principal thing and always better than strength, Pro 4:7, Eccl. 9:16. The New Man will do everything to please God, Pro.11: 14, Pro 12:15, Pro 15:22.
Dedication

The New Man must be identified by his or her dedication. The Lord of the New Man during His earthly ministry, manifested a life of dedication to God and to the cause of our redemption, Jn.9: 4, Jn.4: 34. The New man similarly must be separated from and flee from all appearances of evil. This separation is in all ramifications; ungodly marital plans, business/vocation, ministerial life, all heresies and any form of worldliness, Jn. 7:19, 1 Pet. 1:15-16, I Cor. 6:17-18, I Thess. 4:7, Rom.12: 1-2, 1 Jn. 2:15-17. The New Man is the ultimate winner, as all these removes the Sword of Damocles hanging over his head. He will no longer be a tragedy waiting to happen. Instead, he will become the blessed of the Almighty God, Ex.15: 26; Deut.28: 1-13.
Conclusion

Let everything about you come forth in the newness of life and let the old things really pass away. We decree that everyone will attest to the newness of your life in the mighty name of Jesus.