Being Made Righteous in Christ: A Lifelong Journey of Faith and Spirituality
Being Made Righteous in Christ: A Lifelong Journey of Faith and Spirituality
As Christians, understanding the concept of being made righteous in Christ is fundamental. The Bible teaches us that righteousness is achieved through faith in Christ, not just at a point in time but throughout a lifelong journey of walking in the Spirit. Let's explore the biblical meaning of being "in Christ Jesus" and how this leads to true righteousness.
What Does Being "In Christ Jesus" Really Mean?
The term "in Christ Jesus" is pivotal in understanding our relationship with God. These verses from the New Testament offer clarity:
Romans 8:1 "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."
Romans 8:4 "To fulfill the law through the one who is in Jesus, that is, those who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."
2 Corinthians 5:17 "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
These scriptures highlight that being "in Christ Jesus" means being led by the Holy Spirit, a continuous process of walking according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. It is a lifelong commitment to trust in Christ and follow His Spirit.
Living as a New Creation in Christ
The concept of living as a new creation is emphasized in 2 Corinthians 5:17. It is not a one-time event but a constant state of being that comes through trusting in Christ:
"All that is past is done with; and the new creature is now come, and a living and abiding change by the renewing of the Holy Spirit."
This signifies that as Christians, we should not stop growing and changing as we walk with Christ. Our old self dies with Christ, and we are made new by the power of the Holy Spirit. This transformation is an ongoing process that requires constant reliance on the Spirit to guide us.
Fulfilling the Law Through Christ
According to Romans 8:4, believers who are "in Christ Jesus" are able to fulfill the law. This occurs when believers are led by the Holy Spirit. The law, as a guide, becomes a living and dynamic part of our lives through faith in Christ:
Fulfilled Through the Spirit: It is the Spirit who helps us to fulfill the law. Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
This statement clarifies that our lives are not lived in isolation but in dependence on Christ and the Holy Spirit. Our actions and decisions should be motivated by our walk with Christ.
Can You Become Unrighteous?
It is crucial to understand that being "in Christ Jesus" is not a one-time event. It is a continuous state that one must maintain through a lifetime of faith. Galatians 2:20 also emphasizes that if we stop being led by the Spirit, we are no longer "in Christ Jesus." This transformation into righteousness requires constant effort and God's ongoing grace:
Does not the potter have the right over the clay to shape it into any form he chooses? What if God, wanting to show his wrath and make known his power, has put up with tolerance the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, in order to make known the riches of his glory for the vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory (Romans 9:21-23).
This verse from Romans 9:21-23 highlights the idea that even if we fall short, God's grace and mercy are always available to restore us. This mercy and grace are foundational to our relationship with Christ and sustain us through our struggles.
Continuous Faith and Righteousness
Finally, it is essential to remember that no one has already been made righteous in Christ. Continuous faith and trust in Christ are necessary to maintain righteousness:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. You are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
This scripture from Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores the importance of faith and continuous trust in Christ for salvation and righteousness. Being made righteous in Christ is an ongoing process of faith and dependence on God's grace and the Holy Spirit.
Conclusion
In summary, being made righteous in Christ is a lifelong journey of faith and spirituality. It is about living in Christ and being continually led by the Holy Spirit. To be "in Christ Jesus" means to continually trust in Him, to be transformed by His Spirit, and to fulfill the law through faith. As believers, we must strive to maintain this state and trust in the grace and mercy of God throughout our lives.