What does it mean to be crucified with Christ according to the Bible? Specifically, I’m interested in understanding the theological implications of this concept as presented in the New Testament, especially in the writings of Paul. How does being “crucified with Christ” relate to concepts like dying to self, new life in Christ, and freedom from sin? Are there different interpretations of this concept across different Christian denominations or theological traditions, and if so, what are the key differences? Furthermore, how does one practically live out this “crucified” life on a daily basis? What are some concrete examples of how this plays out in a Christian’s choices, behaviors, and relationships?
Answer
To be crucified with Christ, according to the Bible, signifies a profound spiritual union with Jesus Christ in His death and resurrection. It is a multifaceted concept with several key aspects:
1. Identification with Christ’s Death:
- Romans 6:6-8: This passage is central to understanding crucifixion with Christ. It states that "our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him."
- This identification implies that the believer’s former way of life, characterized by sin and separation from God, is put to death. The "old self," the unregenerate nature, is considered to be crucified alongside Christ.
- It’s not a literal, physical crucifixion, but a spiritual one, where the power of sin is broken in the believer’s life.
2. Death to Sin and Self:
- Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
- Crucifixion with Christ means dying to the desires and control of the flesh (sinful nature). It’s a voluntary renunciation of self-centeredness, pride, and the pursuit of worldly pleasures as the primary focus of life.
- It entails a willingness to put to death the "deeds of the body" (Romans 8:13), meaning actively resisting and mortifying sinful impulses and habits.
3. Participation in Christ’s Suffering:
- Philippians 3:10: "I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death."
- While not necessarily involving physical torture, crucifixion with Christ can also mean sharing in His suffering. This might manifest as:
- Persecution for one’s faith (2 Timothy 3:12).
- Bearing the reproach of Christ (Hebrews 13:13).
- Denying oneself for the sake of the Gospel (Matthew 16:24).
- Experiencing hardship in the service of Christ.
4. New Life in Christ:
- Romans 6:4: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."
- Crucifixion is not the end; it is the prelude to resurrection. Just as Christ rose from the dead, believers who are crucified with Him also experience a new life empowered by the Holy Spirit.
- This new life is characterized by:
- Walking in obedience to God’s will (Romans 6:4).
- Bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Living for Christ and His purposes (2 Corinthians 5:15).
5. A Continuous Process:
- Crucifixion with Christ is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process of dying to self and living for Christ.
- It requires a daily commitment to deny oneself, take up one’s cross, and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).
- It is a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and transformation as the believer’s life is increasingly conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).
In summary, to be crucified with Christ means to identify with His death in such a way that the power of sin is broken, the old self is put to death, and the believer is enabled to live a new life of obedience and service to God, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is a process of continuous surrender and dependence on Christ, leading to spiritual growth and conformity to His image.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you humbled and seeking understanding. We ask you to illuminate our hearts and minds as we ponder the profound mystery of being crucified with Christ.
Lord, your Word speaks of dying to ourselves, of surrendering our will and ambition to your divine purpose. We confess that often we cling tightly to our own desires, our own plans, and our own sense of control. We struggle to truly lay down our lives, to embrace the suffering that might come with following your Son.
We know that being crucified with Christ is not a literal death, but a spiritual one. It is a death to our old selves, to the sinful nature that seeks to dominate our thoughts and actions. Help us to understand that it is in this death that we find true life, a life transformed by your grace and empowered by your Spirit.
Grant us the courage to face our weaknesses, our pride, and our selfish inclinations. Help us to nail them to the cross with Christ, knowing that in him we find forgiveness, healing, and new beginnings.
Teach us to live with resurrection power, walking in newness of life, filled with the love, joy, and peace that only you can provide. May our lives be a testament to the truth that we are no longer our own, but have been bought with a price. May we live to glorify you in all that we do.
We ask for your continued guidance and strength as we strive to live out the meaning of being crucified with Christ, that we may truly reflect your image in this world.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.