5.
Most assuredly the new man is a follower of the Lord Jesus. Jesus extended an invitation to any and all to follow Him. Then qualified it by stating His requirement is that of daily taking up a personal cross. Luke 9:23 The cross in this case is well defined, Jesus said, Let him deny himself. One who has not denied the self life is undisciplined, self centered and unruly. The cross is the cure. This action is not defined as relating to a few, such as His disciples. Those who were His companions but the challenge is extended to anyone who would truly follow the Lord Jesus.
The results are contrary to the thinking of humanity. Whosoever shall save his life shall lose it. The cross speaks of a loss of life in death. In this situation that death results in life. A seed planted in the soil must die and germinate, coming forth in new life. So, the true follower of Christ must crucify the old life that the new life may come forth in glorious abundance. The crucified life is eternal life. Spiritual, real life is on the far side of the cross. Until experienced we are short changed. he world has nothing to offer that even begins to compare to the riches we find in the Lord Jesus. Luke 9:23-24.
Prime Christian living and victory are found in a life which is crucified with Christ. Gal. 2:20 While there may be loss in being crucified with Christ, the benefits, the spiritual gains far out weigh any and all losses. The triumphant life. The life of joy and fullness of blessing is found by those who pass through that door of crucifixion with Christ. In their spiritual life they have nailed the world to the cross while at the same time dying to the beggarly elements of the world. They are Gods free man. Free from the domination of sin and iniquity.Gal. 6:14.
The marks of crucifixion and indicators of having been crucified with Christ. They are evidenced in the individual having died to the flesh and its affections and lusts. Gal. 5:24 Paul’s statement helps define the work that is accomplished. John gives us an understanding of what is meant by the world. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life, well define what is to be removed in the process of being crucified with Christ. Freedom from these is not a loss but great gain for it opens the doors of the store house of the Lord. 1 Jn. 2:16.