Over three other posts (here, here, and here) we have discussed the truth that every Christian is, in
this life, both a sinner (Rom. 3:23; 1Tim. 1:15) and a saint (Rom. 1:7; Gal.
3:26-29). We observed that while both terms are used to describe
believers, our identification with Christ is primary and determinative
in terms of our character, behavior, and hope. Since God has given us the new
birth (John 1:12-13), we are being remade in the image of Christ (Col. 3:9-11).
Jesus has redeemed us from sin’s penalty and power; therefore, we have power to
resist sin and practice righteousness (Rom. 6:15-18). Because the Spirit of God
dwells in us, we have confidence in our union with Christ and eventual
resurrection (Rom. 8:9-11) and power to resist the fleshly temptations that
remain (Rom. 8:12-17).
This is where
our discussion of Christian identity becomes practical and helpful. The Bible
does not command behavior in order to create
a new identity; it commands behavior on the basis
of our new identity (Eph. 4:17-24). God speaks to us as a Father, not
instructing us how to earn His love and acceptance, but how to live in light of
it. Therefore, we ought to hear the commands of Scripture, not with the despair
of those under the penalty and power of sin, but as those liberated from it and
reconciled to God.
This gives us
great encouragement and power for obedience. We obey God ought of joy and
gratitude, not slavish fear or terror of His wrath (1 John 4:17-19). God’s work
of regeneration and reconciliation, coupled with our union with Christ and the
Spirit’s indwelling, shows us we can
overcome sin because Christ has defeated
it (Rom. 6:1-18).
Anyone who says
they cannot do what Scripture commands denies this work of God in their lives.
It is unbelief for me to tell God I cannot do what He enables me to do by
grace. Can I love my enemy (Matt. 5:43-48)? Yes, I can by grace. Can I forgive
my enemy (Col. 3:12-15)? Yes, I can by grace. Can I overcome bitterness,
depression, anger, and despair (Eph. 4:25-32)? Yes, I can by grace. The power
does not lie in me. It lies in the One who gave Himself for me, who now lives
within me (Gal. 2:20; Php. 4:13). Do you trust Him enough to surrender yourself
entirely to Him? -JME
