As a follower of Jesus, I am “in Christ Jesus.”
This phrase signifies a profound, spiritual transformation that has taken place in my life.
Here’s what it means to be “in Christ Jesus” for me:
- I am a new creation: I am no longer the same person I was before salvation. I’ve been made new, with a new heart, new desires, and a new purpose (2 Corinthians 5:17).
- I am united with Christ: I’m spiritually connected to Jesus, and He’s connected to me. This union brings me into an intimate relationship with God, allowing me to experience His love, guidance, and power (Romans 8:1, 1 Corinthians 6:17).
- I am forgiven and justified: My sins are forgiven, and I’m declared righteous in God’s eyes because of Jesus’ sacrifice. I’m no longer condemned or guilty (Romans 3:24, 5:1, 8:1).
- I am adopted into God’s family: I’m now a child of God, with all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities that come with being part of His family (John 1:12, Romans 8:14-17, Galatians 3:26).
- I am sanctified: I’m set apart for God’s purposes, and I’m being transformed into Jesus’ image through the process of sanctification (1 Corinthians 1:30, 6:11, 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
- I have a new identity: I’m no longer defined by my past, my sin, or my shortcomings. My identity is rooted in who I am “in Christ Jesus” – a beloved, forgiven, and redeemed child of God (Colossians 3:3, 1 Peter 2:9).
- I have a new purpose: I’m called to live a life that honors God, reflects Jesus’ character, and advances His kingdom. I’m no longer living for myself, but for the One who saved me (2 Corinthians 5:15, Galatians 2:20).
- I have a new hope: I have a confident expectation of eternal life, resurrection, and a glorious future with God. This hope anchors my soul, giving me strength and courage in the face of life’s challenges (Hebrews 6:19, 1 Peter 1:3-5).
- I have a new community: I’m part of a global, spiritual family – the Church – where I can find support, encouragement, and fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:24-25, 12:22-24).
- I have a new power: I have the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers me to live a victorious, obedient life, and to fulfill my God-given purposes (Romans 8:9-11, 2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
As I continue on this journey “in Christ Jesus,” I’m not just a saved individual; I’m a vital part of a much larger, eternal story – a story of redemption, love, and glory that will continue to unfold throughout eternity.