By Jack Glover

The words “in Christ” appear together numerous times in the New Testament. Depending on the context, they refer to various actions or descriptions. Of all the uses, the most important fact to learn is that none of the things promised to, or said about, those who are in Christ apply to those who are out of Christ.

Freedom from condemnation is found only in Christ. “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1).

Salvation is not promised to everyone. It is only promised to those who are in Christ. The general view of the world is that one can be saved in various religions and faiths, but that is not true. “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

How does one get in Christ? The scriptures say, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (Gal. 3:27). When we are baptized into Christ, we become new creatures, putting off the man of sin when we arise to a new life. “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” (Rom. 6:4-6; II Cor. 5:17).

Many seem to think the very act that the scriptures say put us in Christ is not necessary. We refer our reader to Matthew 7:21-23: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.'”

Yes, salvation is in Christ, and baptism places us in Him and saves us. “Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you — not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience — through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him” (I Pet. 3:21-22).

Are you IN CHRIST?