prayershield

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

This is the second verse in the series. Some opening thoughts…

 Though probably not the intent, this verse perhaps condemns a lot of Christians, or they have a very incorrect view of crucifixion. What is crucifixion then? If we look to the Lord we see that he bore shame and pain when he was crucified.

Hebrews 12:2 says: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

We also have a great joy set before us and it is Christ Himself. For us to be “crucified” means that we are to put to death the old self and be willing to endure any trial for the Lord as he endured the ultimate trial for us.

 The only cross that many us ”carry” are tiny pendants on silver or gold chains. Jesus tells us in Luke 14:27  “And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

The cross of Christ cost Him His life. Are we willing to carry our own cross and be crucified as He was, dying to ourselves so that He can live within us?