Crucified with Christ: The Journey of Surrender and Transformation
In Galatians chapter two, the Apostle Paul addresses the churches in Galatia, confronting false teachings that had begun to infiltrate the early Christian community. Paul defends his apostleship and the core truth of the gospel: that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than by adhering to the works of the law. This message was crucial for the early church, as it clarified that righteousness before God comes not from human effort or rule-following but from trusting fully in Jesus’ completed work on the cross.
Galatians 2:20 serves as a powerful, personal declaration of Paul’s transformed life through this very gospel. He states, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” With these words, Paul expresses the depth of his union with Christ—a union so profound that his old self, with its reliance on the law and human effort, has died. In its place, Christ now lives within him, shaping his thoughts, actions, and entire purpose.
This verse captures the essence of Christian identity and transformation. Through faith in Jesus, believers share in both His death and resurrection. Their old selves, with the sinful tendencies and limitations of the flesh, are “crucified,” enabling them to live anew, powered by the Spirit of Christ within. Paul’s statement reveals not just the theology of Christian life but also the motivation behind it: a love-driven response to Jesus, who “loved [us] and gave Himself” sacrificially. This new life, then, is a journey of faith, anchored in Jesus' love and sustained by His presence within us.
The Choice to Love God and the Role of Free Will
God’s desire for a relationship with us is rooted in love—a love that can only be real if chosen freely. This is why He has given us the gift of free will, allowing us to decide whether or not we want to know, love, and follow Him. Free will is essential to the ethic of love; love that is forced or obligatory is not truly love at all. By allowing us this freedom, God invites us to choose Him willingly, making our love for Him authentic and meaningful.
Choosing to believe in God, to love Him, and to seek a relationship with Him marks the first and most foundational step in the Christian faith. This choice opens the door to knowing God personally, yet it requires more than just intellectual belief—it calls for genuine faith in Christ and a heartfelt surrender to His Lordship. When we place our faith in Jesus and submit our lives to Him, a transformative process begins. Through this surrender, God works within us, gradually shaping us to reflect His character and live in alignment with His purposes. This transformation is what Paul refers to in Galatians 2:20, where he no longer lives by his own strength or desires but by Christ who lives in him, made possible through faith and devotion to the One who loved him and gave Himself for him.
The transformation that begins when we place our faith in Christ is a profound act of grace. In this initial step, God Himself enters a person’s life through His Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of a relationship that is both intimate and life-changing. The Holy Spirit’s indwelling signifies that a believer has been set apart for God, sealed as His own. This is affirmed in Ephesians 1:13-14, where Paul explains that believers are “sealed with the Holy Spirit” as a mark of their salvation and belonging. Romans 8:9 also underscores this truth: “If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.” Thus, all who believe in Jesus are given the Holy Spirit as both a guarantee of their relationship with God and a source of strength for the journey ahead.
However, the work of the Spirit is not a one-time event but an ongoing, conscious process of surrender and spiritual growth. While the initial indwelling of the Spirit happens when we accept Christ, the transformation He brings unfolds over a lifetime, often through distinct stages. This ongoing process calls believers to continually yield themselves to God’s will, allowing the Spirit to guide, convict, and empower them to live in alignment with Christ’s character. Through this lifelong journey of faith, the Spirit refines and matures believers, enabling them to live fully in the identity they have in Christ—no longer driven by self-interest but by the indwelling presence and purpose of Jesus.
The Lifelong Process of Transformation and Sanctification
The transformation that begins when the Holy Spirit enters a believer’s life is both immediate and ongoing—a journey of sanctification where God continually shapes and refines His children to become more like Christ. Philippians 1:6 offers a powerful reminder of this process: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” While God initiates the transformation from the moment of belief, His work in us continues throughout our lives. This journey involves growth, healing, and spiritual maturation, as believers are gradually conformed to the image of Christ.
The key to this transformation is the believer’s ongoing surrender and commitment to spiritual growth. Though the Spirit dwells within, we are called to “walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16), allowing His influence to guide our daily lives. This call to “put to death” the old, sinful ways (Colossians 3:5) challenges us to leave behind patterns of self-centeredness and sin. Yet this change doesn’t happen automatically; it requires a daily, intentional decision to follow God’s guidance and to open ourselves to His Spirit’s work. Surrendering to the Spirit’s influence means actively choosing God’s ways over our own, learning to trust His wisdom, and embracing the changes He brings. Through this daily walk of faith and obedience, God’s transformative work in us deepens, aligning our hearts and lives more closely with Christ’s character and purpose.
From the moment of belief, God’s Spirit begins to dwell within us, initiating a profound journey of transformation. However, for this transformation to truly take root, a believer must continually yield to God’s work, allowing the Spirit to renew their mind, reshape their character, and guide their choices. It’s a collaborative process—God works within us, but we must also actively let go of our old ways. This willingness to be led by the Spirit is what gradually brings about a life that reflects Christ more fully, as our thoughts, behaviors, and priorities align increasingly with His.
A central theme in Galatians 2:20 is the concept of being “crucified with Christ.” Through faith, Christians experience a kind of spiritual “death” to their former selves—their sins, self-centered desires, and the bondage of living for oneself. Just as Jesus died physically on the cross, believers are called to make a decisive break from their past lives marked by sin. This “crucifixion” is not about physical suffering but about letting go of the old life that centered around self-interest and turning instead toward a life shaped by the Spirit. It’s a daily commitment to live by faith in the One who loved us and gave Himself for us, allowing His presence to guide and transform us into His likeness.
Christianity, at its heart, is more than a religion; it is a way of life, a transformative journey that shapes every aspect of a believer's character and actions. Unlike a set of rituals or rules, it calls for a profound and gradual renewal of who we are. Just as we spent years developing the habits and attitudes of our old, ‘natural’ selves, it similarly takes time, effort, and the Spirit’s guidance to develop our ‘spiritual’ selves, molded after the character of Christ. This journey involves a lifelong process of “peeling away” the layers of our old nature and replacing them with Christlike qualities.
This transformation often means confronting and overcoming deeply ingrained vices or habits. Many people come to faith carrying the weight of harmful patterns, such as alcoholism, smoking, drug addiction, pornography, infidelity, and other struggles. These vices are remnants of the old self that take time to overcome, often requiring both internal and external battles. Yet through God’s Spirit and the believer’s willingness to surrender these old patterns, change is possible. This process of renewal is not quick or easy, but through patient surrender and daily reliance on the Spirit, believers gradually shed the old ways, embracing a life that is increasingly marked by the peace, integrity, and purpose found in Christ.
Living for Christ: A New Purpose and Identity
In Galatians 2:20, Paul’s words, “it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me,” capture the depth of transformation that comes with a life surrendered to Jesus. Although we continue to be physically alive, the old self—driven by personal ambition, self-centered desires, and worldly pursuits—has been replaced by a new life in Christ. This change is so profound that it’s as if Jesus Himself lives through us, guiding our actions, shaping our thoughts, and aligning our motivations with His. Rather than living for ourselves, we now live for Christ, empowered by His Spirit within us.
This new identity is no longer focused on satisfying personal desires but is instead intertwined with the life and purpose of Jesus. As believers, we become part of the body of Christ, adopting His values, purpose, and mission as our own. The old life, defined by self-centered goals, is replaced with a life aimed at reflecting Christ’s love, humility, and compassion. This union with Christ reshapes everything, calling us to a higher purpose where we live not for ourselves but for the One who gave Himself for us. Through this daily transformation, our lives reflect Christ’s presence within us, bearing witness to a new life marked by purpose, grace, and a deep love for God and others.
This profound transformation doesn’t imply that a believer must abandon their career, family, or personal goals. Instead, it redefines the purpose behind these pursuits. With a new identity in Christ, a believer sees their work, relationships, and everyday activities as opportunities to serve God, make a positive impact, and display Christ’s love and character to those around them. Rather than seeking career advancement, success, or family fulfillment purely for personal gain, a Christian’s ambitions and goals are now aligned with God’s purposes.
In this new perspective, work becomes a chance to contribute to the world with integrity, excellence, and compassion, honoring God through our talents and efforts. Family life transforms into a calling to nurture, love, and guide others in faith, reflecting Christ’s selfless love. Each area of life is infused with meaning and purpose beyond mere achievement, as every pursuit becomes a way to glorify God and fulfill His calling. This shift from self-centered ambitions to Christ-centered living underscores what it means to be “crucified with Christ,” embracing a life that reflects His love, humility, and purpose in every facet.
Chris as Our Strength and Guide
The phrase “Christ lives in me” highlights that Jesus Himself becomes the source of a believer’s strength, wisdom, and guidance. This profound truth means that Christians no longer rely solely on their own abilities or willpower to navigate life’s challenges. Instead, they depend on Jesus to empower and direct them, trusting in His strength rather than their own. With Christ’s presence within, believers are never left to face life’s difficulties alone; they are continually renewed, strengthened, and supported by the indwelling Spirit.
This reality also points to a life that is increasingly directed by Jesus’ teachings and example. Over time, a believer’s goals, actions, and attitudes begin to reflect Jesus’ love, humility, and compassion. Yet this transformation does not erase a person’s individuality or personality. Instead, it enhances it, aligning one’s character with Christ’s nature while preserving the unique qualities God has given each person. Through this process, believers become more fully themselves, embodying the virtues of Christ without losing the distinctive traits that make them who they are. As “Christ lives in me,” a believer’s life becomes a blend of their unique personality and Christ’s character, creating a powerful witness of God’s love and presence in the world.
Living a Life of Sacrifice and Obedience
Just as Jesus exemplified a life of self-sacrifice and obedience to God, believers who have Christ “living in them” are called to relinquish self-centered ambitions in favor of a higher purpose. This transformative journey is known as sanctification, where the Holy Spirit actively works within believers to cultivate Christ-like qualities. Over time, the Spirit helps to gradually reshape their hearts and actions, aligning them more closely with God’s will. This process invites Christians to embody the values of love, humility, and service, reflecting the character of Christ in their daily lives.
It is also crucial to consider the phrase, “The life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God.” This reminder underscores our humanity and the reality of facing earthly challenges. While we are called to a higher purpose, we are still very much in the flesh, navigating the complexities of life. However, the key distinction is that our lives are now guided by faith and trust in Jesus rather than by personal desires or adherence to the law. Each day is an opportunity to live in trust and dependence on Christ, relying on His guidance rather than solely on our own understanding or efforts. This faith-driven approach empowers believers to face challenges with confidence, knowing that they are supported by the One who loves them and walks alongside them, infusing their lives with purpose and direction.
The final part of Galatians 2:20, “Who loved me and gave Himself for me,” powerfully encapsulates the essence of Christ’s love, vividly demonstrated through His sacrificial death on the cross. This profound act of love serves as the foundation of our faith, reminding us of the immense cost of our salvation and the depth of God’s commitment to us.
Recognizing that Jesus willingly gave Himself for us inspires deep gratitude and devotion in our hearts. His love not only redeems us but also compels us to respond by living for Him. This love transforms our motivations, fueling a desire to embody His teachings and reflect His character in our daily lives. As believers, we are called to mirror this selfless love in our relationships with others, serving and caring for them as Christ has done for us. In light of His incredible sacrifice, our lives become a testimony of gratitude, demonstrating our commitment to live in accordance with the principles of love and service that He exemplified. Ultimately, understanding Christ’s love invites us into a deeper relationship with Him, shaping our identities and guiding our actions as we seek to honor the One who loved us so profoundly.
A vital aspect of Galatians 2:20 is the emphasis on Christ’s love being both personal and unconditional. Jesus does not merely love humanity as a collective; He loves each individual with an intimate and sacrificial love that transcends our understanding. This love is not based on our worthiness or performance but is freely given, valuing each person deeply despite their flaws, past sins, or mistakes.
Such a personal love assures us that we are known and cherished by God on an individual level. It invites us into a relationship marked by grace, where our shortcomings do not define our value in His eyes. Instead, we are embraced and accepted, encouraging us to approach Him with honesty and humility. This unconditional love transforms our identity, allowing us to see ourselves as beloved children of God, worthy of His grace. In response, we are motivated to extend this same kind of love to others, fostering a community of compassion and understanding that reflects the heart of Christ. Understanding that we are loved unconditionally by Jesus empowers us to live boldly, confidently embracing our new identity and purpose as we share His love with the world around us.
Jesus’ willingness to give His life on the cross highlights the profound depth of His love and the voluntary nature of His sacrifice. He was not coerced or forced into this act; rather, He chose to lay down His life out of love for humanity and in obedience to the Father. This decision exemplifies the highest form of love—sacrificing one’s life for others.
In His ultimate act of love, Jesus demonstrated that true sacrifice often requires profound selflessness and commitment. By willingly enduring suffering and death, He showcased a love that goes beyond mere words or feelings; it is a love that acts and gives, even in the face of immense pain and adversity. This self-giving love not only redeems us but also sets a powerful example for how we are called to love one another.
As believers, we are invited to emulate this sacrificial love in our own lives, learning to prioritize the needs of others and seeking to serve rather than be served. Understanding that Jesus chose to give His life for us inspires a deep gratitude that compels us to live out our faith with purpose and devotion, reflecting the love that He so freely offered. Through this lens of sacrificial love, we find not only our identity in Christ but also a calling to make a difference in the lives of those around us, embodying the very essence of His message and mission.
Embracing a New Life in Christ: A Gospel of Love and Redemption
In summary, Galatians 2:20 encapsulates the core of the gospel: God’s personal and sacrificial love, profoundly demonstrated through Jesus’ life and death. This verse reassures believers that they are not only valued and loved but also redeemed through Christ’s selfless act on the cross. Understanding this deep, intimate love transforms how we see ourselves and our purpose in life.
This assurance of love and redemption motivates believers to live lives that reflect Christ’s transformative power. Recognizing that we are deeply cherished by God encourages us to step out in faith, embracing our new identity and purpose in Him. As we internalize this truth, we are inspired to share that love with others, serving as conduits of His grace and compassion in a world that desperately needs it. Ultimately, Galatians 2:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational truth of the Christian faith: that we are called to live not for ourselves, but for Christ, whose love empowers and guides us each day.
Relevant Bible Verses
There are several other Bible verses that complement Galatians 2:20, deepening our understanding and connecting its message to the broader teachings of Scripture.
Romans 6:6-7
Romans 6:6-7 beautifully complements the message of Galatians 2:20, reinforcing the concept of the believer's identification with Christ's crucifixion. The verse states, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.”
This passage echoes the theme of transformation, highlighting that the old self—characterized by sin and separation from God—has been crucified alongside Christ. Just as Paul emphasizes in Galatians that it is no longer we who live, Romans affirms that our old sinful nature has been put to death, freeing us from the bondage of sin. This liberation allows believers to embrace a new identity, living empowered by the Holy Spirit instead of being enslaved by past sins and desires.
The connection between these verses underlines the transformative power of faith in Jesus. By accepting Christ’s sacrifice, believers are not only forgiven but also equipped to live in a way that reflects their new life in Him. This profound truth should inspire gratitude and motivate us to pursue a life characterized by righteousness, as we seek to embody the values and teachings of Christ in our daily walk. Together, Galatians 2:20 and Romans 6:6-7 serve as powerful reminders of our new identity, calling us to live out the freedom and grace that come from being united with Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17
2 Corinthians 5:17 further reinforces the message found in Galatians 2:20 by declaring, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This powerful affirmation of transformation encapsulates the essence of what it means to have a life that is “crucified with Christ.”
Just as Galatians 2:20 emphasizes the believer's new identity in Christ, this verse highlights the radical change that occurs upon accepting Jesus. The phrase “the old has gone” signifies the departure of our former selves, marked by sin and separation from God, while “the new is here” celebrates the arrival of a transformed life empowered by the Holy Spirit.
This new creation is not merely an enhancement of the old but a complete renewal. It underscores that believers are no longer defined by their past mistakes or their former way of life; instead, they are given a fresh start, a new identity that reflects Christ’s nature. This profound shift in identity calls for a response—believers are encouraged to live in alignment with this new reality, embodying the values and characteristics of Christ in their daily lives.
Together, Galatians 2:20 and 2 Corinthians 5:17 emphasize the transformative power of faith in Jesus, reassuring us that through Him, we are not only redeemed but also made new. This truth should inspire us to embrace our identity as new creations and to pursue a life that reflects the love, grace, and purpose that flow from our relationship with Christ.
Colossians 3:3-4
Colossians 3:3-4 beautifully complements the themes expressed in Galatians 2:20 by stating, “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” This passage echoes the profound reality of the believer’s identity in Christ, affirming that through faith, we have died to our old selves and now find our true life in Him.
The phrase “For you died” resonates deeply with the message of Galatians 2:20, where Paul declares that he has been crucified with Christ. It emphasizes that, just as Christ sacrificed Himself, believers also experience a spiritual death to their former ways of living. This death is not an end but rather the beginning of a new existence—one that is “hidden with Christ in God.” This metaphor conveys a sense of safety, intimacy, and belonging, reminding us that our lives are now intertwined with Christ’s, secured in His love and grace.
Moreover, the declaration that “Christ, who is your life” underscores the transformative nature of this relationship. Christ becomes the very essence of our being, guiding our thoughts, actions, and purposes. The promise that we will appear with Him in glory speaks to the ultimate hope and future that awaits believers, affirming that our present transformation is just the beginning of a glorious journey.
Together, Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 3:3-4 invite believers to embrace their new identity and live out the reality of being hidden in Christ. They encourage us to focus on our relationship with Him, knowing that our lives are now defined by His love, purpose, and eternal promise. This understanding empowers us to live boldly for Christ, reflecting His character and light in the world around us.
Philippians 1:21
Philippians 1:21 resonates powerfully with the themes found in Galatians 2:20, stating, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” This verse encapsulates the essence of what it means to live a life fully devoted to Jesus, highlighting the transformative impact of faith on a believer’s purpose and perspective.
The declaration “to live is Christ” aligns perfectly with Paul’s message in Galatians about having Christ live in us. It emphasizes that our existence is no longer centered on ourselves or our ambitions but is wholly focused on reflecting and serving Christ. In this new identity, every aspect of life—our relationships, work, and daily activities—takes on new meaning as we seek to embody the values and teachings of Jesus. Living for Christ means allowing His love and purpose to guide our decisions, actions, and interactions, ensuring that our lives are a testimony to His grace and truth.
Furthermore, the latter part of the verse, “to die is gain,” offers profound hope and perspective on the believer's future. It reminds us that even death holds no fear for those who are in Christ; rather, it is a transition to an eternal existence with Him. This truth encourages believers to embrace a mindset that values spiritual over earthly pursuits, knowing that our ultimate reward lies in being united with Christ forever.
Together, Galatians 2:20 and Philippians 1:21 challenge us to live lives marked by purpose and intention, fully committed to Christ. They invite us to celebrate our new identity and to view both life and death through the lens of our relationship with Him. This understanding empowers us to face life's challenges with confidence and hope, knowing that we are called to live for Christ and that our lives hold eternal significance.
John 15:4-5
John 15:4-5 adds another layer of depth to the message found in Galatians 2:20, emphasizing the essential nature of our relationship with Christ for spiritual growth and productivity. The verses state, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
This passage illustrates the intimate connection between believers and Christ, likening Him to a vine and us to its branches. Just as a branch draws life and nourishment from the vine, believers draw strength, purpose, and guidance from their relationship with Jesus. This reinforces the idea presented in Galatians 2:20, where Paul highlights that it is Christ who lives in us, empowering us to live transformed lives.
The call to “remain” or “abide” in Christ speaks to the importance of a continuous, dynamic relationship with Him. It is through this abiding that we can bear spiritual fruit—reflecting Christ’s character and sharing His love with others. This underscores that our efforts alone, detached from Christ, are fruitless. It is only through reliance on Him that we can fulfill our calling and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Moreover, the promise that we will bear “much fruit” if we remain in Him points to the visible evidence of a life transformed by Christ. This fruit may manifest in various ways—through acts of love, service, and the development of Christ-like qualities in our character.
In combining Galatians 2:20 and John 15:4-5, we are reminded of the foundational truth that our identity and ability to live for Christ are rooted in our relationship with Him. Together, these verses encourage us to prioritize our connection with Jesus, understanding that it is through Him that we find our purpose, strength, and the ability to bear lasting fruit for His kingdom.
Ephesians 3:17
Ephesians 3:17 further enriches the understanding of Galatians 2:20 by stating, “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love...” This verse emphasizes the centrality of faith in allowing Christ to inhabit our hearts, affirming the transformative power of His presence in our lives.
The phrase “Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith” echoes the essence of what it means to be “crucified with Christ” as described in Galatians 2:20. It highlights that our faith in Jesus opens the door for Him to take up residence within us. This indwelling is not just a passive presence; it is an active engagement where Christ shapes our thoughts, desires, and actions. Just as Paul states in Galatians that it is no longer I who live, Ephesians reinforces that our lives are fundamentally altered by the living Christ within us.
Moreover, the call to be “rooted and established in love” emphasizes the foundation upon which this transformative life is built. Love is not only the motivating force behind Christ’s actions but also the defining characteristic of our new identity as believers. Being rooted in love means that our relationships with God and others are anchored in the unconditional love of Christ. This love nurtures our spiritual growth and compels us to extend that same love to those around us.
Together, Galatians 2:20 and Ephesians 3:17 remind us that a genuine relationship with Christ is the source of our strength and identity. It is through faith that we invite Him into our hearts, and it is His love that sustains and guides us. This understanding inspires us to cultivate our faith, allowing Christ to dwell within us as we grow in love and bear fruit that reflects His nature. Ultimately, these verses call us to embrace the depth of our relationship with Christ, knowing that our lives are transformed when we are rooted in His love and grace.