Day 189, Colossians 3
The divine exchange is the heart of this chapter: when we come to Christ our old self dies. In its place we receive new life in Jesus.
I died in Christ (His crucifixion included my old man), and I was made alive in Christ.
Now the truth is that I am “continually being renewed into the likeness of the One who created you; giving you the full revelation of God.” Just as a life begins at conception, grows in the womb, is born and then matures into an adult, so the believer often experiences a period of drawing or wooing before coming to faith, and then grows to maturity in Christ. This maturing is the purpose of Paul’s letters, and we can use Paul’s wisdom as we in turn disciple others in obedience to the Great Commission.
The key difference between the first birth and the second birth is that there is no second death for those who are in Christ!
This is a powerful truth, and an incomparable gift from God. In light of this, all our relationships will be transformed, reflecting God’s love more fully. In all our interactions we live out and demonstrate the unconditional, giving love of God to those around us. And God will reward this obedience.
Have a great day!
Mark.