Continuing our series entitled “Brexit and all that”, today we focus on a few more priceless benefits of being “in Christ”…
Father…
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith…” (Gal. 3:26 NIV)
Not only are we treated as “faultless” in the eyes of God when we are in Christ (remember the first part of our series?), but when we put our trust in the Saviour’s atoning work on the Cross (John 1:12), we are given the priceless privilege of at once becoming God’s children in Christ.
While Jews in Bibilica times came trembling to their temple, offering many sacrifices to appease God and while other religions do not dare to call God their Father. only those who are “in Christ” can come joyously running into their Heavenly Father’s presence, calling Him “Abba”. And there is a ring of warm informality to the term Abba. In the Aramaic language, it is an equivalent of our contemporary Daddy or Papa. Consider this Scripture: “…For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!'” (Rom. 8:15 ESV)
There is no needless, frantic fear for God in a Christian’s life, but only a deeply reverential fear. The life of those who are “in Christ” will be one, long joyous walk with the Father (Philippians 4:4-7). Yes, in this journey, child of God may have some slip-ups, and subsequently there may be some painful discipline exercised by the concerned Father (See Heb 12:5-11,which again is the proof of the former’s sonship); however, when it is all said and done, obedience to the Father for a Christian will not be a drag, but a delight. Rivers of joy will perpetually flow into his heart (John 7:37-38) throughout his spiritual journey, even as he fleshes out an “abundant life” in Christ (John 10:10).
Freedom…
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36 ESV)
When one is walking with a heart full of Heavenly love and joy for the Heavenly Father, the human heart experiences full liberty. And why not? It has been set free both from licentiousness (bye, bye Epicurean philosophy! See Col 2:10-13) and of the need to gain Divine approval by rigid legalism (Farewell Stoicism, Pharisaical rituals et al! See Gal 5:1). What a blessed state! What a blessed state indeed!
Prayer: Father, what a wonderful privilege, it is to be “in Christ”. May we, who are experiencing the “priceless benefits” of being “in Christ”, be ever grateful and loyal to Thee. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Suresh Manoharan
An unworthy servant
J and SM Ministries