HIGHLIGHT
Galatians 2:20 (ESV): 20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
EXPLAIN
Paul began this letter by explaining how his conversion to Christ led him to abandon his previous efforts to gain salvation by good works.
Paul meticulously explained how his gospel was not in contradiction with the rest of the church, but rather supported by the other apostles.
Indeed, the validity of Paul’s gospel was obvious when Peter began to act hypocritically in one occasion, and Paul called him out. After mentioning that event, Paul transitioned into teaching about being justified by faith.
In order to be justified by faith, it was necessary for Paul to die to the law, so that he might live to God. Therefore, Paul was crucified with Christ, and it was Christ who gave him life.
APPLY
In Galatians 1:13 Paul spoke of his “former life in Judaism.” Paul was still a Jew, yet his life of trying to please God by following Jewish laws and regulations was long gone.
Each one who would follow Christ must also crucify their past life so that they might now live in and by Christ.
My life is not my own; I belong to Christ. I do not live by my own strength, wisdom or will; I live only through Christ.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, thank you that in my life there was a BC and an AD. May I continue to live today, not by my power, but by you. May Christ live in me and animate me for your glory. Amen.