A new creation in the cross
Galatians 6:11-16
11See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand! 12Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13Not even those who are circumcised obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh. 14May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. 16Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule, even to the Israel of God.
1. The world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
The worldly values became nonsense for me, and the old “me” died.
2. The cross’s two steps of power
Step #1 Justification has been completed for one time.
Psalms 97:2 b
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Step #2 Sanctification is an on-going process
Through his/her whole life
* What is the difference between them?
Justification is like a farmer who gets a field for free.
Sanctification is like a farmer who cultivates the field that has been given to him for free.
The fruit of Sanctification is the fruit of the Sprit. Galatians 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
3. A new creation
#1 Cultivating a spiritual field
Luke 9:23b
If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
#2 Getting freedom and hope through knowing the truth.
#3 Only God can create.
Summary of today’s message
Justification - necessary for a non-Christian
- baptism
Sanctification - necessary for a Christian
- communion
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