InstaStudy

Living in Newness: Our Identification with Christ

This study explores the profound truth of our spiritual union with Christ, examining how our death with Him leads to a vibrant new life, empowered by His Spirit and secured by our faith.

1. The Foundation of Our New Life: Death with Christ

1.1 Dying to the Old Self

Verses: Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3
  • Our former way of life, dominated by sin, is put to an end.
  • This is a spiritual reality, a break from the power of sin.
  • It's a necessary precursor to living a new life.

1.2 Identification with Christ's Sacrifice

Verses: Romans 6:3; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; 1 Peter 2:24
  • His death on the cross was for our sins.
  • We are called to share in His death, not just observe it.
  • This union makes His death effective for us.

2. The Act of Identification: Burial and Resurrection

2.1 Buried with Him in Baptism

Verses: Romans 6:4a; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38
  • Water baptism symbolizes our burial with Christ, putting away the old man.
  • It's an act of obedience and identification with His death.
  • This is where we are spiritually immersed into His death.

2.2 Raised to Walk in Newness of Life

Verses: Romans 6:4b; Ephesians 2:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:17
  • Just as Christ was raised, we are raised to a new spiritual existence.
  • This new life is characterized by freedom from sin's dominion.
  • It's a life lived in conformity to God's will.

3. The Promise of New Life: Living with Him

3.1 The Certainty of Future Glory

Verses: Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22; John 14:19
  • Our belief in our death with Christ guarantees our future life with Him.
  • This includes resurrection and eternal fellowship with God.
  • It's a hope rooted in God's faithfulness.

3.2 Present Spiritual Vitality

Verses: Romans 6:11; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 3:10
  • "Living with Him" also means experiencing His life and power now.
  • This is a daily walk, empowered by His presence.
  • We are alive to God through Jesus Christ.

4. The Power for New Life: The Indwelling Spirit

4.1 The Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus

Verses: Romans 8:2; Romans 8:9-10; John 14:16-17
  • The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead now dwells in us.
  • This Spirit empowers us to live a righteous life.
  • He is the source of our spiritual vitality and strength.

4.2 Walking in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 8:4
  • Our new life is to be lived under the guidance and control of the Spirit.
  • This leads to victory over the desires of the flesh.
  • The Spirit produces fruit in our lives, demonstrating our new nature.

5. The Assurance of Our Hope: Faith in His Work

5.1 Believing God's Promise

Verses: Hebrews 11:1; Romans 4:20-21; 2 Timothy 1:12
  • Our conviction that we will live with Him is founded on faith.
  • God's word is trustworthy and His promises are sure.
  • This faith is not just intellectual assent but a deep trust.

5.2 Living by Faith, Not by Sight

Verses: 2 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 1:17; 1 John 5:4
  • Our new life is a journey of continuous trust in God's power and grace.
  • We walk in the assurance of what God has done and will do.
  • Faith is the victory that overcomes the world.