In Christ

In Christ "old things have passed away" (2 Cor. 5:17) What was Paul talking about? When one becomes a Christian he/she "puts on Christ" (Gal. 3:27) in baptism and begins to live a different way The Christ-like characteristics we add to our faith are vital if we are going to let our light shine in the world (2 Peter 1:5-8; Matthew 5:16). Our mind begins to focus on "things above" (Col. 3:2) and not on things of this earth. We get rid of things that are going to be a hindrance to our influence for Jesus (Col. 3:5-9a) and we add to our life those attitudes and actions that make us like Jesus (Col. 3:12-14). This is the commitment we make as we decide to follow Jesus and become a Christian. So being baptized is a very big decision. In this submissive act of faith we are letting the world know that we trust in the Lord's death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:1-5) and we are willing to make the changes necessary to be like Jesus. It is out of this mind-set that one comes to be "baptized into Christ" (Romans 6:3). Have you become a new creation "in Christ?" Are you ready to change your mind and become like Jesus? (Acts 2:38)

Rob Albright