My former Professor of New Testament at The University of Edinburgh in Scotland, James S. Stewart, spoke much about being 'in Christ'. It was a phrase he would use frequently in his sermons, talks and lectures.
It is only over these recent weeks that I have been seriously reconsidering the significance of this powerful concept. It is a phrase used frequently by the apostle Paul when he is writing his letter to various church and individuals. 'In Christ' and its close equivalent 'in the Lord' flow from Paul's quill. One scholar has recounted that Paul uses these words some one hundred and sixty four times. It is as if he just could not stop using these words. They were so relevant and meaningful to this man of God, and of course, they are profound.
That is where we as disciples of Jesus Christ should live: 'in Christ'! that is some address to have!
It was not that Paul lacked words to use because his writing is of a high literary standard. This phrase meant so much to him. For years, he had been out of Christ and even had opposed Christ and those who followed Christ, and then Jesus Christ found him and confronted him and rescued him and saved him.
Saul of Tarsus, who later became Paul, was 'born again' and became such a powerful leader and preacher and teacher and writer. He did much travelling too founding churches all over the Middle East, and his motivation and inspiration as a leader sprung from where he lived: 'in Christ'. That is no empty sentiment. For those of us who are disciples of Jesus and who follow Christ is a most meaningful phrase.
Paul writes that we are sanctified in Christ Jesus. That means that we are set apart, or made holy, or different. Because we have been 'born again' and as a result of becoming a 'new creation', we are different that can have its own set of issues and problems. Some people do not like those who are different, and perhaps that is one of the reasons why there is so much persecution of believers in Jesus around the world today.
Believers in Christ Jesus are justified which means they are delivered from the penalty of sin, and they are also sanctified which involves being delivered from the power and pollution of sin.
This is not dry theology. This is life and inspiration for every Christian leader.
At a time when strong moral spiritual leadership is so greatly needed, let this phrase inspire and encourage you wherever you are. Study the letters of Paul and find these phrases for yourself and understand their profound meaning and significance, and may they enable you to remain faithful to Jesus in these perilous times.
There is a dynamic when a man realises that he is in Christ. He is in God, the Son. This is no dry doctrinal belief. This is life and love and power and anointing for service.
Sandy Shaw
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