New

Greek Word Pronunciation: kai-NOS
Strong’s Number: 2537
Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 2785
Key Verse: “Behold, I am making all things new.” -- Revelation 21:5

There are two Greek words that are both usually translated as “new.” The first is neos, which signifies something that is new in respect of time, that which is recent. It is frequently used of comparing “younger” people with older. The second word is kainos, referring to something that is new as to quality, of a different nature.

Both words are sometimes used of the same thing, but with the difference in meaning. In Matthew 9:17 (and Mark 2:22 and Luke 5:38), the reference is to new (neos) wine being put into fresh (kainos) wineskins. The wine is of recent production. In Matthew 26:29 (and Mark 14:25), the new (kainos) wine of the kingdom will be of a different character from that of this world.

The new (neos) covenant in Hebrews 12:24 is compared with the Mosaic covenant 1,500 years before. The new (kainos) covenant in Hebrews 8:8, 13, and 9:15 is compared with the Mosaic covenant which is old in character.

The new (neos) self in Colossions 3:10 refers to the brand-new nature of the believer, replacing the old self, and stressing the recently-begun experience. The new (kainos) self and creature in Ephesians 4:24 and 2 Corinthians 5:17 refers to the new nature that is quite different from anything previously existing, not merely recent.

God’s new creative work, begun in each one who believes in Jesus Christ, will one day be consummated on a universal scale. The references in Revelation 21:1 and 2 to the “new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem,” as well as REVELATION 21:5, “I am making all things new” are all kainos. The former state of things when sin and death reigned will be changed. As the creation of the world at the beginning was the work of God alone, so will be this new creation.