Crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:17-21)

Scripture: Galatians 2:17-21

Today’s Word

“But if, in seeking to be justified in Christ, we Jews find ourselves also among the sinners, doesn’t that mean that Christ promotes sin? Absolutely not! If I rebuild what I destroyed, then I really would be a lawbreaker. For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. 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. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” (Galatians 2:17-21, NIV)

Background

Key Terms Made Simple

• Justified: Being declared righteous before God. This comes not through our efforts or good works but only through faith in Jesus.
• Law: The commandments and rules God gave to the people of Israel through Moses, including the Ten Commandments, sacrificial laws, and dietary regulations.
• Crucified: Being put to death with Jesus, meaning our old self died. We no longer live by our own way but by Christ’s way.
• Grace: God’s undeserved gift of love and salvation given freely to us, even though we don’t deserve it.

Key Expressions to Notice

1. “I have been crucified with Christ” (v. 20)
2. “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (v. 20)
3. “If righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” (v. 21)

Main Points of the Text

1. Justified by Faith, Not by Law: Paul was justified not by keeping the law but by faith in Christ. The law serves only as a mirror showing us our sin; it cannot be a means of salvation.
2. Dying with Christ and Living by Christ: The cross is not just Jesus’ death alone. Our old self was also crucified with Christ. Now we don’t live by our own strength but by the life of Christ within us.
3. Not Setting Aside God’s Grace: Claiming we can be saved by keeping the law makes God’s grace meaningless. It’s like saying Christ’s death on the cross wasn’t sufficient.

Applying to My Life

1. From “Must Do” to “Can Do”: Legalistic faith is full of burdens like “I must do this, I can’t do that.” But in Christ, we experience the freedom of “I can do this with the Holy Spirit’s help.” Try shifting your perspective today so your faith becomes a grateful privilege rather than a burdensome duty.
2. From “Me” to “Christ”: Many people get exhausted thinking “I need to try harder, I need to do better.” But in the Christian life, I’m not the main character. When you face difficulties today, instead of asking “How can I solve this?” ask “How will Christ who lives in me work in this situation?”
3. Recognizing the Sufficiency of the Cross: We sometimes try to add our efforts, good works, and dedication to Christ’s cross. But the cross is already complete and sufficient. Throughout today, reflect on the truth that “Jesus accomplished it all” and live in peace with the assurance of salvation.

Think About It

1. Have you ever thought you needed to do something “more” to be saved or to be accepted by God? What was it?
2. How might the statement “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” specifically show up in your daily life?
3. How can you check whether you’re relying on your own efforts or on Christ’s grace?