June 2026 - Acts & Romans

We are finally closing in on the end of the book of Acts and I’m so excited to get started on Paul’s letter to the Romans! The next 13 books of the Bible were authored by the Apostle Paul so we are about to get very familiar with his writing. One phrase in particular is especially Pauline, “in Christ” or variations “in the Lord” and “in him.” According to John Stott this phrase or one of its variations occurs 164 times in Paul’s epistles.

Use of this phrase is meant to help us understand, and I think appreciate, why it is we can approach a Holy God as our loving Father. Our position of being “in Christ” means that we are hidden in him in such a way that God the Father sees Christ and his perfect righteousness as He looks at us. That is truly no small thing! All of the privileges we enjoy as Christians are because of our being “in Christ.” The privilege of talking to God like our Father whenever we want to, of being forgiven for sin, of having the righteousness of Christ accounted to us, of being saved from hell and promised eternal life, all of these are the result of our position “in Christ.”

As you journal over these next several months, look for the phrases “in Christ” or it’s variations. Maybe circle them in your bible and keep your own count. I think I’m going to highlite them in a different color so that I’m reminded every time I open my New Testament of this truth, “I am in Christ!” Is there anything more life changing than that?

Another idea, as you come across these phrases, look to see what benefits or behaviors are attached to being “in Christ.” These are great springboards for responsive journaling. You are about to embark on one of the most exciting and difficult sections of the New Testament, keep your eyes open and your pens ready, let’s go!

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