To be in sync with God is to be reconciled with our Creator.  When I refer to "vertical reconciliation" that's what I'm talking about.  Isn't it strange that God initiated reconciliation with us.  We sinned, not God.  We violated God's laws with our idolatry: idolatry of self over against the worship of God  alone.

Yet God created us and loves us and calls us back into fellowship with him.  How so?  He removes our sin, extinguishes our guilt and makes us clean again, our souls becoming white as snow, through the atoning life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  (see e.g. Isaiah 1:18, 2 Cor. 5:17)

Jesus, who knew no sin became sin ... it was if Jesus put on a robe of sin and took the weight of our just punishment upon himself to the cross.  This is the first step in what Paul perceives as God's great plan of reconciliation.

But that's not all!  God removes our sins so that ... yes, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.  Note there is a sense of "becoming" and not a automatic and full transformation into Christ-likeness. 

Also appreciate that this gradual transformation (see also 2 Cor. 3:18) is not accomplished on our own efforts but rather by being "in him."  Remember what I preached on this point?  What does it mean to be "in him?"  When you are "in your parents home" (that is, in prolonged relationship with your father and mother) do they tend to influence you, inform your life, influence you?  I've been married for a little over 31 years, and several people comment on how much alike Karen and I are!  That doesn't surprise me, because when you are in a deep and abiding relationship, you influence and speak into one another's life.  

This is true also of one who is in a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ.  We are gradually transformed into his image and likeness.  "In him" ... that's key.  And as we are found in him, we turn toward God in repentance and are gradually transformed.  That's a hope filled truth we can bank on, and it adds light and hope and vigor to every day of our existence.

Shedding our sins through faith in Jesus Christ and his work on the cross, and receiving this hope filled transforming life through this relationship with him, I call the GREAT EXCHANGE!  

In the study passage you will read my favorite bible verse, one that is still key in keeping me grounded and centered in my life in Christ.  It's 2 Cor. 5:17.  It's a summary statement of the GREAT EXCHANGE.  I invite you to read it.  Memorize it if you dare.  Believe it.  And let its truth seep deep into your soul. 

Enjoy your Life Group, and may God continue to richly bless you and all those whom you love.

Pastor Michael