These four words, taken from Galatians 2 : 20, reveal to us two important truths:
CHRIST LIVES – A HISTORICAL FACT
In 1 Corinthians 15 : 3 – 8, the apostle Paul reminds the Christians in Corinth and us, ‘For what I received I pass onto you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.’
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a historical fact, regardless of our personal beliefs.
CHRIST LIVES IN ME – A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
The risen Christ said to the angel of the church in Laodicea and he says to us today: “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.” Revelation 3 : 19 – 20
When we confess and turn from what we know to be wrong (repent), ask for forgiveness, believe in Jesus Christ the Son of God who died for our sins and invite him into our lives – HE WILL COME IN, BY HIS HOLY SPIRIT. Jesus Christ knocks but never forces his way in. However, he gives us the gift of faith which enables us to invite him to enter and take over our lives. From that moment, as we begin our Christian journey, we are able to say with great assurance – “CHRIST LIVES IN ME”.
The Micah Mandate is a Christian-based public interest advocacy ministry that seeks a transformation of our nation through justice, mercy and humility.
