Victorious living
What do we need to live victoriously? Some may think it begins with identifying our “spiritual gifts” so they can serve in the church (Eph. 4:12). Others search out the “benefits of Christian living” claiming the promises of God as their own (2 Cor. 1:20).
But I contend that the most important factor that leads to victorious living (for new and sage believers) is understanding our spiritual blessings in Christ. Spiritual blessings in Christ are the means by which we gain access to, acceptance from, and authority of God.
It begins “in Christ”
When I began my Christian walk, the meaning of “in Christ” was a mystery to me. I tried to understand it based on those things I was familiar with. For example, I established membership in the local church, and I was in fellowship with its members to serve and glorify God in my life. But “in Christ”, what did it mean? Paul described it this way in Ephesians 1:3:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.
“In Christ” is the present experience of the risen Christ indwelling the believer’s heart by the Spirit. It is more than an imitation of the life and teaching of Jesus. It describes our union with Christ as a result of the divine action of grace by God. As a result of that action, we are transformed into a “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17).
A Closer Look
“In Christ” isn’t the result of keeping the Law or by good works. It is a gift of God (Eph. 2:10). How was this gift accomplished?
Jesus Christ, by taking part of weak flesh and blood, satisfied the righteous requirement of God, to destroy the devil, and to deliver us from the penalty of sin (Heb. 2:14-15). In exchange, we have moved from being “dead in our trespasses” (Eph. 2:1) to our new position of being “in Christ.” It is here that we are put in a vital union and communion with Him so that we identify with Him.
Look at Me Now!
“In Christ” we no longer identify with the world’s standards and views. We (in position) can now begin the process of being conformed (in practice) to the image of Christ—righteous and holy (Rom. 12:2).
God makes His superabundant blessings available to us as His children by faith in Christ so that what Christ has is ours. This includes His righteousness, privilege, resources, position, and power. We are able to draw upon the wealth of Christ to accomplish God’s purpose and His will.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms. It is the unique string of characteristics that make us who we are—physically and mentally. In Christ, we have been given new spiritual DNA that equips us for the purpose and plan God has created for our lives.
In Christ we have been given everything we need to live godly and productive lives (2 Pet. 1:3-4). Join with us next week as we continue to explore, “Spiritual Blessings for Victorious Living.”