August 21, 2002
I AM CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST. A necessary experience for the Bride of Christ. Crucifixion speaks of just one thing, and that is death to self, to the old nature, to the carnal man. In order for the life of Christ to be fully manifest in us, we must be crucified with the Lord Jesus. Paul is not speaking of natural death, for he said: I live, but it is not the former life that he is now living, it is that new life in Christ Jesus. There is a life, while still in this body, that reaches into that which is everlasting and eternal. A place where the completeness of His life is lived in the Christian. Gal. 2:20 Paul did not revel or boast in his many achievements both academically and spiritually but in the cross of Christ. For, through the cross the world and its evil and wickedness had been crucified to him. He was released from all its bondage and control. He lived for Christ alone. Gal. 6:14
SIN SHALL NOT REIGN. Providing we have died to self but are living unto Christ. Its forces and powers are defeated in a life that has died to self. The problem is with the <old man> that at times, if he is not dead, will usurp his authority and take control much to the consternation and embarrassment of the individual involved. Rom. 6:12 Surrender and commitment may go either way, to sin or to righteousness. It is at this point that our determination and resolution to fully serve the Lord is tested. When we yield to the Lord the result is the joy of righteousness. Rom. 6:13 We are to be free from the law of sin and death. Liberated from all of its influences and powers. We now must live by the law of the Spirit of life that is in Christ Jesus. There is a deeper life in Christ than that which is lived by most Christians today, May the Lord help us to attain it. Rom. 8:2
QUICKENED TO LIVE THE LORDS LIFE. Quickened, made to be alive, living His life, while still in the flesh. Brought to life while we were dead in trespasses and sins. He has imparted His life and is sharing it with His people. Eph. 2:5 In the process He forgave us all our sins, they are pardoned, they are eliminated as far as He is concerned. Col. 2:13 Resurrection power being manifest in us, when we have died with Christ. There is a companionship, a togetherness that is our right and privilege in the Lord Jesus. While here on earth we are granted the right to be in Christ Jesus, in heavenly spheres. That is, in the atmosphere of heaven. Enjoying the might and power of His glorious presence. Paul is not saying that He will raise us up at some future day, but He HAS raised us up and caused us to sit in heavenly places. Eph. 2:6 Likewise in Eph. 1:3, He HAS poured out upon us all spiritual blessings. It is an accomplished fact and something that we should be taking an advantage of. The mighty blessings of heaven are there for us, if we would only reach out and claim them for our benefit and blessing. Remember, no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly. Ps. 84:11