The Unparalleled Union
A Presence That Transforms
When Paul declared, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20), he wasn’t just referencing a philosophy or an ideal – he was acknowledging the very presence of Jesus within himself. This isn’t just a notion; it’s a reality that continues to unfold.
The Indwelling Christ
When grace intervenes, Christ takes up residence. As Paul wrote, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). For a long time, I misunderstood this fundamental truth. I recognized Christ’s presence in various aspects of my life – beside me, ahead of me, working through me – but I never grasped the profound implications of His indwelling.
A Unique Claim
No other religion or philosophy dares to make such an audacious assertion. The founders of other faiths may influence, instruct, or entice, but they do not occupy the hearts of their followers. Muhammad doesn’t dwell within Muslims, nor does Buddha inhabit Buddhists. It’s a singular claim that sets Christianity apart: the living presence of its Founder within His followers.
The Mystery Unfolds
As Paul so eloquently put it, “The mystery in a nutshell is just this: Christ is in you” (Colossians 1:27MSG). We, as Christians, are not merely individuals trying to emulate Christ; we are vessels in whom Christ is actively at work. We belong to Him, and He orchestrates our every move, transforming our lives from the inside out.
Redemption and Repurposing
As Christ works within us, He rearranges the chaos, redeeming our mistakes and repurposing our poor choices. Slowly but surely, a new image emerges – one that reflects the character of our Lord. As Romans 8:29MSG affirms, “He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son.”
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