What does "died with Christ" mean for your spiritual identity and actions? Setting the Scene: Colossians 2:20 in Context “ If you have died with Christ to the elementary spiritual forces of the world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its regulations?” (Colossians 2:20) Paul is urging believers to recognize a completed fact: through union with Jesus, you really did die to the old order that once defined you. What Dying with Christ Means for Your Identity • Separated from the old realm – Romans 6:6 “our old self was crucified with Him”. The “old you” is no longer the controlling reality. – Galatians 6:14 “the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” The world’s value system lost its claim on you. • United to Christ’s victorious death – Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” His life is now your life-source. • Freed from human-made religious burdens – Colossians 2:21-23 shows rules that “appear wise” but “lack any value” in restraining flesh. Your standing with God rests entirely on Christ’s finished work. What Dying with Christ Means for Your Daily Actions • Stop acting like the old realm still rules you – “Why … do you submit?” (Colossians 2:20). Saying no to legalistic pressures is part of living out your death with Christ. • Choose heavenly priorities – Colossians 3:1-2 moves directly from the truth of death with Christ to “set your hearts on things above.” • Count yourself dead to sin, alive to God – Romans 6:11 “Consider yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Reckon the fact; then act on it. • Walk in the Spirit, not in self-effort – Romans 8:13 “if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Your new power for holiness is the Spirit, not rule-keeping. • Exhibit freedom that loves others – Galatians 5:13 “do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another in love.” Death to the old opens the way to serve in new life. Living Out the Reality: Practical Steps 1. Replace rule-centered thinking with Christ-centered thinking—measure choices by what pleases Him, not by human lists. 2. When temptation whispers, answer, “That person died” (Romans 6:2). 3. Start the day affirming Romans 6:11 aloud; end the day thanking Christ for living through you. 4. Spend intentional time in passages that highlight your union with Christ (John 15; Ephesians 1-2). 5. Join with believers who emphasize grace over legalism, encouraging one another to walk in freedom. Quick Reference Verses to Keep Close |
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