This verse shows us where Paul’s burden for the lost began. The conjunction hōste (therefore) points back to 2Cor 5:14, 15, which describes salvation.

After his conversion, the way Paul viewed people changed radically. From then on, he did not recognize (oida; lit. “know,” or “perceive”) anyone according to the flesh; he no longer evaluated people based on external, worldly standards, as the false teachers did (cf. 2Co 5:12; Gal. 6:12).

The proud Pharisee, who once scorned Gentiles, and even those Jews outside of his group, now looked beyond mere outward appearances. His prejudice and hatred gave way to a love for all, including “Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman” (Col 3:11). (MacArthur, J: 2Corinthians. Chicago: Moody Press)

3. Identifying as new is not just a final destination, it is a journey!

II Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

You have to be in Christ – that is the final destination. How does that work?

II Corinthians 5:18 NKJV

Ephesians 1:13-14 NKJV

You have to now identify as new! (You are a new creation – what does that mean?)

God’s grace didn’t just “cover” their sin. He didn’t just hide it from view, leaving them the same underneath. He began something completely new in them. He made them completely new!

They were completely transformed creatures, He gave them new eyes with which to see each other, the World, and even Christ Himself. It’s only by seeing through the eyes of the Spirit, that we are able to see Jesus for who He really is; the Savior of the World who not only redeems, but restores and transforms His Creation.

You have to accept the new identity that God has given you.

“You are never going to do anything to be more righteous than you are right now. When you are in Christ – you are as righteous as you are ever going to be”. (Pastor Paul Mowery - Harvest Fellowship - Leo, IN)