In Christ

The words "in Christ" appear together numerous times in the New Testament. Depending on the context they refer to various actions or descriptions. Of all the uses the most important fact to learn is if one is out of Christ none of the things promised, or said about, those who are in Christ apply.

Freedom from condemnation is only found in Christ. "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit (Romans 8:1). Salvation is not promised to everyone. It is only promised to those who are in Christ. The general view of the world is that one can be saved in various religions and faiths, but that is not true. "And in none other is there salvation: for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, wherein we must be saved" (Acts 5:12).

How does one get in Christ? The scriptures say "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Gal.3:27). When we are baptized into Christ we become a new creature, putting off the man of sin when we arise to a new life. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (Rom. 6:4-6; II Cor. 5:17). Many seem to think the very act that the scriptures say put us in Christ is not necessary. We refer our reader to Matthew 7:21-23. "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ (Mt. 7:21-23). Yes, salvation is in Christ, and it is baptism that places us in him, and save us. "There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him (I Pet. 3:21,22). Are you IN CHRIST?