The Treasure Within

As Christians, those that are in Christ, while being in this world system but not of it, we are constantly exposed to follow the influences that surround us. This is why faith-dependence on Christ, who is in us, keeps us in Him experientially. We are to experience Him, and so kept from experiencing the influences of this world system.

We must be with God, through Christ, and so from Him, without ceasing to be with Him in everything that pertains to ourselves and others. As Paul said, by the Holy Spirit, "that with all boldness, as always, so NOW also Christ WILL (my will given over to His will) be magnified IN my body, whether it be by life or by death. “For me to live IS Christ, and to die is gain.” Phil. 1:20-21.

Yes, death to any influence of this evil flesh and this evil world system that would keep us (hold us hostage) from experiencing the reality of who Christ is in us. The Holy Spirit, through Paul, wrote, "for we preach not ourselves; but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus sake." 2 Cor. 4:5.

Like all of us in Christ, he was a vessel for only Christ to pour Himself out through. Nothing of his old self with all of its worldly influences was to mix with Christ.

We have this Treasure in these fragile clay jars, that the power that excels all and is excellent in its beauty and majesty, may be of God and NOT OF US, 2 Cor. 4:7.