There is a
definite “already, but not yet” tension to the teaching of the New Testament. Believers
in Christ participate in and partake of His new creation, the redemption of this
world and its deliverance from the curse and weight of sin (Rom. 8:18-25). Those
in Christ are part of that new creation, not only in the forgiveness of our
sins and the crucifixion of our old man of sin, but also in our new status as
new covenant members, children of God, and heirs of the new heavens and new
earth (2Cor. 5:16-17). We live between two worlds: the sin-cursed world which
still groans and aches for the revelation of God’s Son and also the redeemed
creation begun in our hearts and waiting to burst forth and restore what was
lost at the Fall (cf. Rev. 22:1-5).
The new creation is true of Christians today, prior to
the return of Christ. We have received a new heart (Ezek. 36:26), a new birth (John
3:5-8), and a new status as members of God’s family (John 1:12-13) and heirs of
His promises (Gal. 3:29). But all who partake of the new creation in this life
are still confronted by trials (1Pet. 4:12), subject to temptation (1Cor.
10:12-13), often weighed down by sins (Heb. 12:1-2), and troubled by evil and
death (John 16:33; 1Thess. 4:13-18). Nevertheless, Christ’s work guarantees the
completion of that new creation when the ultimate results of His redemptive
labor are revealed (Php. 1:6; 3:20-21). Jesus has triumphed, already (Col. 2:15). Jesus has defeated sin and death, already (Rom. 8:2). Jesus has accomplished the Father’s purpose,
already (John 17:4; 19:30). But each will be manifested more fully and
perfectly shortly.
When Jesus returns His lordship will be universally known
and acknowledged (Php. 2:9-11). His victory over sin and death will be fully
realized when the dead are raised and the redeemed are received into
everlasting life in the presence of God (1Cor. 15:50-57). At that time the
perfection of Jesus’ work will be seen and the salvation of God’s elect will be
complete (1Pet. 1:3-9). We participate by faith in unseen realities (cf. 2Cor.
5:7; Eph. 1:3; Heb. 11:27). We endure because we know the victory has already
been won. The outcome of the contest is not in doubt. Christian, trust Jesus,
dare boldly for His cause, and do not fear the enemies, pain, or trials through
which you must pass. We have, by God’s grace, already won. -JME
