Introduction

The concept of "Our Position in Christ" is a foundational tenet in Christian theology, emphasizing the believer's spiritual status and identity through faith in Jesus Christ. This position is not based on human merit but is a result of God's grace and the believer's union with Christ. It encompasses various aspects of spiritual life, including justification, sanctification, adoption, and inheritance.

Union with Christ

The believer's position in Christ begins with the doctrine of union with Christ. This union is a profound spiritual reality where believers are spiritually joined to Jesus. In John 15:5, Jesus states, "I am the vine, you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing." This metaphor illustrates the intimate and life-giving connection between Christ and the believer.

Justification

Justification is a legal declaration by God, where He pronounces the believer righteous on the basis of Christ's righteousness. Romans 5:1 affirms, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace signifies a restored relationship with God, free from the penalty of sin.

Sanctification

Sanctification is the process by which believers are made holy, set apart for God's purposes. It is both a definitive act and a progressive work. 1 Corinthians 1:30 states, "It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption." This verse highlights that sanctification is rooted in Christ's work and is an ongoing transformation in the believer's life.

Adoption

Adoption into God's family is another aspect of the believer's position in Christ. Through faith, believers become children of God, enjoying the rights and privileges of sonship. Galatians 4:4-5 explains, "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons." This adoption assures believers of their identity and belonging in God's family.

Inheritance

Believers in Christ are also heirs to a spiritual inheritance. This inheritance is imperishable and reserved in heaven. Ephesians 1:11-14 describes this inheritance: "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, would be for the praise of His glory." The Holy Spirit is given as a deposit, guaranteeing this inheritance.

New Creation

In Christ, believers are made new creations, signifying a radical transformation of identity and purpose. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This new creation status empowers believers to live in accordance with God's will, reflecting His character and love.

Security and Assurance

The believer's position in Christ provides security and assurance of salvation. Romans 8:38-39 offers comfort: "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." This assurance is rooted in the unchanging nature of God's love and the completed work of Christ.

Conclusion

The believer's position in Christ is a multifaceted doctrine that encompasses the entirety of the Christian experience. It is a position of grace, identity, and eternal security, grounded in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Through this position, believers are called to live out their faith, reflecting the character and mission of Christ in the world.