Having a new nature in Christ means receiving a transformed heart that desires to follow Him and live in accordance with His righteousness.
In Christ, believers are granted a new nature, characterized by a heart that desires to follow Him and a mindset aligned with God's truth. This transformation is illustrated in the story of the demoniac, who, after encountering Jesus, is described as sitting at His feet, clothed, and in his right mind. The change from being uncontrolled and destructive to being composed and focused on Christ signifies the heart’s renewal upon salvation. Romans 12 calls believers to be sober-minded, not to think more highly of themselves than they ought. This new nature, however, does not imply the absence of the old nature; instead, it coexists, but the new creation in Christ has the power to overcome sin through Him (2 Corinthians 5:17). This new identity reflects the work of Christ in the believer, leading them to action that honors Him.
Scripture References:
2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:3, Mark 5:15
Commentary