Applying the Concept of Putting on Christ in Daily Life
To "put on Christ" is to be clothed with His righteousness, character, and example, as Paul writes in Galatians 3:27, where he states that those who have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. This concept is rooted in the idea that believers are united with Christ, and as such, they are to reflect His character and example in their daily lives. It involves embracing Christ's humility, love, and obedience, and allowing these qualities to shape one's thoughts, words, and actions.
This truth addresses the heart's desire to be conformed to the image of Christ, and it matters because it reflects the believer's union with Christ and their identity as children of God. The concept of putting on Christ is closely tied to the Reformed doctrine of sanctification, which emphasizes the believer's growth in holiness and Christ-likeness.
In a pastoral sense, this truth brings comfort and encouragement to believers, as they are reminded that they are not alone in their pursuit of Christ-likeness, but are rather empowered by the Holy Spirit to put on Christ and reflect His character to a world in need of His love and redemption. By putting on Christ, believers are able to demonstrate the gospel in their daily lives, and to point others to the hope and salvation that is found in Christ alone.