We Must Die to Live

2/16/2024

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." - Galatians 2:20 (ESV)

In the letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul provides a profound revelation of what it means to be a follower of Christ. Among the many powerful verses in this book, Galatians 2:20 encapsulates the essence of the Christian life and the transformational power of the Gospel. It is a verse that invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of our faith and challenges us to live in complete surrender to Christ.

Paul begins by proclaiming, "I have been crucified with Christ." These words capture the heart of the Gospel message. Through the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross, we have the opportunity to be united with Him in His death and resurrection. Our old self, with its sinful desires and selfish ambitions, is crucified and put to death. Through this act, we are set free from the bondage of sin and given a new identity in Christ.

"It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." This statement reveals the profound truth that when we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are no longer the masters of our own lives. Instead, we surrender our will, desires, and ambitions to Christ. Our lives become a vessel for Him to work through us. We are called to die to our own selfish desires daily and allow Christ to live in and through us. It is a constant reminder that our lives are not about us, but about bringing glory to God and reflecting His love to the world.

"And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God." This verse emphasizes the importance of faith in our daily walk with Christ. We are called to trust in Him and rely on His strength, wisdom, and guidance. Our faith enables us to live in obedience to His Word and empowers us to overcome the challenges and temptations we encounter. As we abide in Christ, our lives are transformed, and we become more like Him.

The final part of this verse, “Who loved me and gave himself for me," reminds us of the incredible love demonstrated through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. He willingly laid down His life for us, taking our sins upon Himself so that we could be reconciled to God. This act of love should inspire us to live our lives in gratitude and devotion to Him.

Today, let us embrace the truth of Galatians 2:20. May we die to ourselves, surrendering our lives to Christ, and allowing Him to live in and through us. As we walk by faith, let us remember His incredible love and sacrifice, and strive to glorify Him in everything we do. May our lives be a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others to experience the same life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ.

Pastor Jeff

#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign

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