UNION WITH CHRIST — PAULINE WORD STUDY
The fifteen load-bearing union texts where the formula carries Paul’s gospel
Purpose. Of the dozens of “in Christ” occurrences in Paul, a smaller set carries the doctrinal weight — texts where ἐν Χριστῷ is not incidental phrasing but the very hinge of the argument. These are the passages to preach and memorize first. Each is given with its theme and a one-paragraph exegetical note.
CENTRAL TRUTH
Union with Christ is, in John Murray’s phrase, the central truth of the whole doctrine of salvation. The texts below are where Paul makes that union do its heaviest work: election, justification, new creation, co-crucifixion, and the hidden life of glory.
SECTION 01
Death & life. Believers reckon themselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus — the indicative ground of sanctification.
SECTION 02
Justification. No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus — the forensic security of union.
SECTION 03
Preservation. Nothing can separate from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
SECTION 04
Source of all. Of God you are in Christ Jesus, who became wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, redemption.
SECTION 05