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We have been considering for a time now precisely what is meant by Paul when he talks about us suffering with Christ . First, we looked closely at the sort of suffering that is common to everyone , suffering that both those who are saved and those who are not saved undergo, suffering that those who rejoice…

We have seen in 2:11-12, how there was a great difference and disadvantage between the Gentiles and the Jews. Now in verses 13-18, Paul will point out how both have been put on the same level.

Putting the Virtues of Christ on display and into action would be so revolutionary that it would usher in an era of great spiritual growth.

When our eyes are fixed on Christ, our identities secure in Christ, we are free to live as Christ lived. Christ is Everything!

Paul is pointing out to the Gentile believers to remember where they were spiritually Before Christ. We saw they were without the “sign of God” in their life, circumcision in verse 11. We saw the importance of the “circumcision of the heart.” -- Now in verse 12, he points out 5 more areas where the Gentiles were lacking spiritually Before Christ.

All barriers are set aside where Christ is all and in all.

The removal of the old along with its practices isn’t the essence of the Christian life – it has been done. Being renewed in the image of the creator is the essence of our life.

When we are preoccupied with the things above, our desire for sin grows dim and we praise God for all He has done, is doing and will do.