For if we have become united with Christ

We often relate the gospel to evangelism.  However, notice Paul's passion for the gospel in his letter to  Christians in Rome:

 

 

At the heart of the gospel is the amazing truth that God has made each of us one with Christ. 

 

What does being one with Christ mean?  Last week, we searched Romans 5.  This week, we'll search Romans 6.  For the next two weeks, we will search Romans 7 and 8.  

Our Rest Stop verse today (top of page) says that we have become united with Christ (6:5).  Ponder the verb united!  You have been spiritually and literally united with Christ Himself!  When He died, the old you died.  When He was raised, the new you was raised with Him!

 

And notice that the phrase we have become united with Christ is past tense and passive voice.  In other words, it's a done deal and it was done to you by Someone else!

 

 

Don't overlook that simple preposition with in the phrase united with Christ.  For you see, there are two Greek words for the single English word with.  The Greek word meta means "to be alongside another."  The Greek word sun means "to be so mixed with another that no one can tell the difference."  

 

The Greek word sun is used in this verse!  What a beautiful detail the Holy Spirit gave Paul to write regarding your intimate union with Christ!