The heart of Paul’s theology is “being in Christ.” Salvation wasn’t simply “Where do I go AFTER death?” He emphasized “union with Christ,” sharing in the life of the risen Lord NOW…by grace. A song I like puts it this way: “What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer. There is no more for heaven now to give. To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. For my life is wholly bound to His. Oh, how strange and divine, I can sing all is mine. Yet not I, but through Christ in me.” Yes, our final hope AFTER death is the resurrection to glory, but His commission for us NOW is to engage the world, not escape from it.
What better time than Easter to proclaim that “being in Christ” is the only source of power to rescue and transform the world, for He is spiritually present and active within us by the power of the Spirit. Early Christians literally shocked the Roman world because they were radically different from its culture: radical love and care for everyone, moral and sexual integrity, and refusal to participate in idol worship. Faithful daily living despite opposition, suffering, and persecution, all the while abiding in Christ and bearing fruit, contributing positively to society and obeying most civil laws. People noticed. Their faith was authentic and influential because it was Christ’s presence.
What about today? Nothing new under the sun, eh? The world remains hierarchical; focused on status, power, and wealth; sexually permissive; and infused with idol worship, while the least, the lost and the last are often ignored.
What are we to do? Abide: pray daily, study Scripture, and reflect on our actions. Build community. It takes a village. Treat everyday encounters as opportunities to show Christ-like love. Your presence is His presence. Practice sexual purity, value marriage as a sacred covenant. Refuse idol worship. Stand firm. Claim loyalty only to Jesus. Be counter-cultural.
Act NOW! Engage. Ask yourself: Who can I help? Where and how can I volunteer? Who needs a listening ear? Show interest. People notice genuine compassion, authentic faith. It sparks curiosity. When people trust and respect you, it opens the door to spiritual conversations.
Influence grows through relationships. Be prepared to share how Jesus changed your life with gentleness and respect. And, finally, bring your first and best to Him.
Dan Gallagher, Stewardship Team