By Theodore Epp

      Galatians 6:11-18

      It is remarkable to realize that the crucifixion is a way of life, not just a way of death. Christ's crucifixion was not the end of His redemptive work, for He arose from the grave and provided us with the resurrection life.

      Romans 6:7 says, "But he that is dead [has died] is freed from sin." This means that the person who has died is free from the claims, power, slavery and allurements of sin.

      The basis for Paul's glorying is the cross of Christ. The Judaizers had sought their own glory, but this led only to failure. The kind of self-life they lived through imposing rules and regulations ended in accomplishments that produced self-glory.

      But all of these self-accomplishments were reached in the sphere of the flesh nature and therefore ended in pride.

      This has always been a danger facing Christians, and it is no less today. There is too much Christian life and testimony on a fleshly level.

      Paul's boast and joy and delight was in the One whom the world had crucified. God set His hand of approval on His Son, who was crucified, by raising Him from the dead.

      What is your boast today?

      "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts" (Gal. 5:24).