What Does It Mean To Be ‘In Christ?’

   In last month’s article, I quoted Romans 8:1, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”  I really like this thought.  Just think, if I am “in Christ” I am not condemned and I will be with Jesus for eternity when I leave this physical life.  But notice that I have high-lighted the word “if.” The word “if” makes being “in Christ” conditional.  We need to determine what those conditions are that put us into Christ.

   Some may claim that since Titus 2:11 states, “…the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men,” that we are therefore all in Christ simply because of God’s grace.  But Jesus, in Matthew chapter 7 tells us that road that leads to destruction is wide and many enter through it and only a few find the narrow road that leads to life.  In Matthew 7:22 He tells us, “Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?  Then I will tell them plainly, I never knew you.  Away from me, you evil doers.’”  

   Jesus is speaking to people who believe they are Christians; they call Him Lord, and in His name, they are driving out demons.  They thought they were Christians, they thought th ...