3:27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (Ga 3:27). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
With college football fast approaching, many are dusting off their jerseys or apparel of their favorite team. These colors will be worn as a way to outwardly express an inward loyalty. Dawning the jersey of a player one has never met is an attempt to identify with a group of people that share a similar passion. This cultural image is a modern visualization of what Paul was communicating in Galatians 3:27.
Being baptized into Christ is an outward expression of an inward loyalty. The act of baptism is a clear step of obedience that identifies an individual with all believers who share the same loyalty to Christ. Paul will reference the broad scope of the body of Christ in the next verse.
Historically, it would have been common for an individual to have been baptized nude. This stripping off of clothes would have signified the stripping off of the old self. Following immersion, the believer would come up out of the water and put on a new robe.
Isaiah 61:10 describes being robed in garments of salvation. Romans 3:26 describes the righteousness of Christ. 1 Peter 5:5 challenges us to be robed in humility. The imputation of Christ and the justification of the believer that happens at the moment of salvation is beautifully illustrated in the act of baptism.
The act of baptism is a mark of identification. We outwardly express the inward position and loyalty of our heart. Having put on Christ and being covered in His righteousness by the shed blood of His Son, we have a deeply rooted identity in Christ that is shared with others.
There is nothing wrong with wearing your favorite team’s jersey, but more importantly allow your robe of righteousness to show through your words and deeds.
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