How can we live daily as those "raised through faith" in God's power? Raised with Him—The Fact That Shapes Everything “Having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him through your faith in the power of God, who raised Him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12) • The resurrection is not symbolic; it is historical and literal. • If God truly raised Jesus, then everyone united to Jesus by faith has already been spiritually raised. • This present, spiritual resurrection guarantees a future, bodily resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). • Therefore, daily life is lived from victory, not toward it. Living the Resurrection Reality Romans 6:4 — “…just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.” • “Walk” means consistent, everyday conduct. • Newness is qualitative—it’s life of another kind, sourced in God’s own power (2 Peter 1:3). Ephesians 2:6 — “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” • Our spiritual position (“seated”) supplies authority over sin’s dominion. • Earthly circumstances submit to this heavenly placement (Colossians 3:1–2). Daily Practices Rooted in Resurrection Put Off, Put On (Colossians 3:5–14) • Put to death what is earthly (impurity, greed, anger). • Put on the new self—compassion, kindness, humility. • Each act of obedience is a declaration: “I am raised with Christ; this old pattern no longer rules me.” Feed on Living Truth (Hebrews 4:12; John 6:63) • Scripture is living and active; it sustains resurrection life. • Regular intake renews the mind, aligning thoughts with God’s power at work within (Romans 12:2). Depend on Indwelling Power (Philippians 2:13) • God works in us “to will and to act according to His good purpose.” • Prayerful surrender turns doctrine into dynamic experience—His energy fuels our choices. Guarding the Heart and Mind Colossians 2:8 — “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception…” • Human ideas that diminish Christ’s sufficiency erode resurrection confidence. • Measure every teaching against the full deity and finished work of Christ (v. 9–10). • Spiritual vigilance resists the enemy who targets our identity in Christ. • Standing firm in faith means rehearsing truth: “I have been raised; Satan’s accusations are nullified.” Overflowing to Others Galatians 2:20 — “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” • Resurrection life is inherently missional; it spills into relationships. • Forgiving, serving, and proclaiming the gospel become natural expressions of Christ’s risen life. • Knowing the One who raised Jesus will raise us “spreads thanksgiving to the glory of God.” • Gratitude becomes visible witness. Looking Ahead • Our citizenship is in heaven, and Christ “will transform our lowly bodies.” • Future resurrection motivates present faithfulness; today’s obedience is investment in eternity. • “Behold, I make all things new.” • The same power that raised Jesus and raised us spiritually will one day renew the entire creation—assurance that every act done in His power carries everlasting significance. |
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