If You Are In Christ…
Finding New Life in Christ: Understanding What It Means to Be a New Creation
When we come to Christ, we experience a complete transformation – like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. This metamorphosis changes everything about who we are and how we live. Let’s explore what it truly means to be “in Christ” and how this new identity reshapes our entire existence.
What Does It Mean to Be “In Christ”?
Being “in Christ” means having a new relationship with Jesus – being united with Him. While everyone has some relationship with God, only through Christ can we have a right relationship. This isn’t about simply acknowledging Jesus as a historical figure, but about having a personal relationship that transforms how we view everything.
How Does the Old Life Pass Away?
When we become Christians, our old way of living must change. While we maintain our basic personality and relationships, anything that offends God must be stripped away. The process is like a sculptor chipping away everything that doesn’t look like Jesus from our lives.
Before Christ, we were:
- Spiritually dead
- Following the world’s ways
- Living in fleshly passions
- Unable to please God
What Does the New Life Look Like?
The new life in Christ brings:
- A new heart and spirit
- A ministry of reconciliation
- The role of ambassador for Christ
- A life lived by faith rather than sight
This transformation isn’t based on our work but on Christ’s work in us. We receive it by faith and walk in obedient submission to Jesus.
How Does Sanctification Work?
Becoming like Christ is a process called sanctification. It doesn’t happen instantly – it’s more like a renovation project where God gradually transforms us. This requires:
- Constant faith
- Regular prayer
- Submission to God’s will
- Trust in His timing and methods
Life Application
This week, focus on developing a consistent prayer life. Instead of only praying at meals or in crisis:
- Start each day thanking God
- Ask for His strength throughout the day
- Pray for opportunities to share the gospel
- Seek His guidance in all decisions
Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I truly “in Christ,” or am I just religious?
- What areas of my old life still need to be transformed?
- How consistent is my communication with God?
- Am I living as an effective ambassador for Christ?
Remember, being in Christ isn’t about perfect performance – it’s about consistent progress toward becoming more like Him through faith and obedience.