"Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are new." {2 Corinthians 5:17}

We often quote this verse when we invite alien sinners to become Christians. But do we who have already obeyed the gospel think about what the passage means to us? Far too few seem to give it any consideration after baptism. Let's observe.

The New Testament teaches that one who comes to Christ must change his old manner of life. Jesus told His disciples, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." {Matthew 6:33} We also read that the Christians in Macedonia, "...first gave themselves to the Lord," {2 Corinthians 8:5} Most new converts change at first, but the changes don't seem to last. Are they receiving encouragement from those of us who are mature Christians?

When young people obey the gospel, they are full of questions, zeal, and determination. Any time the doors are open, they are present to worship. If asked to contribute something to the work, they eagerly accept. Often they volunteer to help in any way they can. It's an uplifting thing to behold. After a few months, these same converts begin to notice some things ...

The church has problems getting Bible-class teachers. No one volunteers. Some people attend just once a week, and then only for morning worship. Many of those in the adult Bible classes are unprepared, and there is little participation in the study. On work days, the same ones are always there. Some members never speak to the converts, even though they've been attending faithfully for several months! The converts become discouraged and, hoping to blend in, begin to follow the examples set by the older members. Are we allowing the past to again rear its ugly head in our lives? Let's consider our habits?