I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. ( Gal 2:20 )
The book of Galatians authored by the Apostle Paul, raises an intriguing question: Was Paul literally crucified? To clarify, Christ’s crucifixion occurred before Paul’s conversion, and tradition holds that Paul was beheaded in Rome. So, what exactly is Paul referring to?
Firstly, self-crucifixion is impossible. The Holy Spirit guides us to this spiritual crucifixion. This transformative process is often painful, involving the adoption of a new lifestyle and the breaking of old habits. As the saying goes, old habits die hard.
Change is challenging, which is why Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to help us. If you’re finding change painful, you’re not alone. Even Jesus endured suffering to learn obedience.
Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; (Hebrews 5:8)
Many well-meaning saints get confused with the suffering for Christ. They compare it to being sick. Christ in his time on earth did not suffer sickness. He suffered heartbreak and persecution. He was rejected, especially by those who were closest to him. His own best friend Judas betrayed him. Friends, we must go through these times of suffering so we can develop obedience to God.
Crucifixion is painful and we all have a cross to carry. The good news is that as we reckon ourselves dead and walking in resurrection life, there is joy. We can rejoice in that we have a seat in heavenly places. A place where we can hear the voice of the Father. A place where we can enter into the rest of the Lord and enjoy our salvation. So, like Paul, take inventory of your life. Declare your identity with Christ through the cross and you will never be the same.
Bible verses courtesy of http://www.biblegateway.com
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