A True Disciple

FREEDOM THROUGH CRUCIFIXION

As we continue our discussion of discipleship, it is important that we understand this compelling truth: “ For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery ” (Gal 5:1). Christ went to great lengths to purchase our freedom. The reality of the scope of that freedom is something every disciple should fully comprehend. The cross is the instrument that He used to set us free from sin and death. Romans chapter six reminds us that we died through our co - crucifixion with Christ; we were buried with Him, and we were raised to walk in a new quality of life in Him. Paul explains this aspect of crucifixion in Galatians 2:20. “ 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. ” This has freed us to walk in righteousness (Rom 6:18), to present our members as “ instruments of righteousness ” (Rom 6:13), and to “ present [our] bodies as a living sacrifice to God ” (Rom 12:1). This is the reality of being a new creation in Christ. Therefore, we are obligated not to be controlled by the flesh or to fulfill fleshly appetites, but to follow the Spirit in truth, righteousness, and holiness. We are not to be

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