CHRIST OUR DIVINE LIFE

Christianity is not merely a belief system, nor is it the refinement of human character; it is the impartation of divine life. The heart of the Gospel is not that Christ improves us, but that Christ lives in us.

The apostle Paul speaks plainly when he writes, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ 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” (Galatians 2:20). This is not poetry alone—it is reality. The old life has been put to death, and a new life has taken residence within the believer.

Jesus Himself declared this mystery when He said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who remains in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Our life, strength, holiness, and fruitfulness do not originate in self-effort, discipline, or religious striving; they flow from union. As sap rises unseen through the vine into the branches, so the life of Christ moves quietly yet powerfully within those who abide in Him.

The Word of God teaches that this divine life is not distant or future only—it is present now. “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). Not Christ beside you as a helper only, not Christ above you as an example alone, but Christ within you as life itself. This indwelling presence is the believer’s assurance that glory has already begun its work, transforming us from the inside out.

Because Christ is our life, obedience flows from relationship, not fear. Growth comes not from pressure, but from participation. Paul again writes, “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory” (Colossians 3:4). Notice the language—Christ is not merely the giver of life; He is our life. To walk with Him is to live from Him, drawing every breath of faith from His sufficiency.

This truth changes everything. We no longer ask, How can I live for Christ? but rather, How can I yield to Christ living through me? The Christian life is not imitation—it is incarnation continued, Christ expressing His love, humility, and holiness through willing vessels.

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Lord Jesus, You are our life. Teach us to rest in Your indwelling presence and to trust not in ourselves, but in You who live within us. Let Your life flow freely through us, that You may be seen, honored, and glorified. Amen.

BDD