The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of being “in Christ.” (1) Outside of Christ there are no children of God (Gal. 3:26-27). (2) Outside of Christ there is no redemption (Eph. 1:7). (3) Outside of Christ there is no forgiveness (Col. 1:13-14). (4) Outside of Christ there is no eternal life (I John 5:11-13). (5) Outside of Christ there is no acceptable fruit-bearing (John 15:1-8). (6) Outside of Christ there is no grace (I I Tim. 2:1). (7) Outside of Christ there is no new life (Rom. 6:1-4; II Cor. 5:17). (8) Outside of Christ there is no freedom from condemnation (Rom. 8:1). (9) Outside of Christ there is no preparation for death (Rev. 14:13; I Thess. 4:13-18). (10) Outside of Christ there is no completeness (Col. 2:10). (11) Outside of Christ there is no salvation (Acts 4:12; II Tim. 2:10). (12) Outside of Christ there is no light (Eph. 5:8).
God has "blessed us with all spiritual blessings" in Christ (Eph. 1:3). Baptism is the only scriptural way to enter into Christ (Gal. 3:27; Rom. 6:3-4).
- Randy Kea