Galatians 2:20
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
Context:The book of Galatians was written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. In this letter, Paul addresses the issue of legalism and false teachings that were infiltrating the Galatian churches. He emphasizes the importance of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and not by adherence to the Jewish law.
Crucified with Christ:“I am crucified with Christ” signifies the believer’s identification with Jesus in His death on the cross. Through faith, believers are united with Christ in His crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. This union implies that our old sinful nature has been put to death and we are no longer slaves to sin.
Christ lives in me:“Nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me” speaks to the new life that believers experience through faith in Christ. The indwelling of Christ’s Spirit empowers and transforms believers from within. It implies that our lives are no longer self-centered but Christ-centered. We are called to live according to His will and be guided by His Spirit.
Life in the flesh by faith:“And the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God” emphasizes the believer’s ongoing journey on earth. While we still live in our physical bodies, we are to live by faith in Jesus Christ. This means relying on His grace, trusting in His promises, and seeking to obey His commands. Our faith in Him sustains and directs us as we navigate the challenges of life.
Christ’s love and sacrifice:The verse concludes by highlighting the love of Christ and His sacrifice on the cross: “who loved me and gave himself for me.” The sacrificial love of Jesus is the foundation of our salvation. He willingly laid down His life to pay for our sins, demonstrating the depth of His love for us. Recognizing His love and sacrifice should lead us to a life of gratitude, devotion, and selflessness.
