A New Administration: The Gospel's Promises and Christ’s Victory

Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:13-15
"When you were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him."

Our neighbours to the south just inaugurated a new president, as I am sure you are all aware. I watched some of the events of Donald Trump’s first day as president in the US. I had never seen the signing of executive orders before, thought I am sure it’s a normal facet of an incoming president, however it was fascinating to see him sign a number of executive orders to mark the start of his administration and to signify a break from the previous one. Watching this unfold reminded me of the ultimate inauguration of a new era—when Jesus Christ died and rose again, issuing eternal decrees of grace that reversed the old order of sin and death. His work was not just a symbolic gesture but a decisive, transformative act that established His Kingdom forever. Thinking of the analogy of a new president signing executive orders to bring in a new administration is a helpful way to thinking about just what happened at the cross.

Before Christ’s victory, humanity lived under the oppressive rule of sin. The old administration, ruled by Satan, was marked by condemnation, guilt, and bondage. In a sense, Satan operated as the illegitimate ruler of a fallen world, wielding the law’s demands as a weapon to keep people enslaved. However, when Christ took our sins upon Himself at the cross and triumphed over death through the resurrection, everything changed. Christ’s victory not only defeated Satan but also disarmed the powers that held humanity captive. His triumph inaugurated a new Kingdom, one built on the unshakable promises of the gospel.

This radical shift in power is not unlike a sweeping political change, but its implications are infinitely greater. Christ’s “executive orders” are the eternal promises of the gospel, which now shape the lives of His people. These decrees declare freedom, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God. They affirm the authority of Christ over every sphere of life—spiritual, personal, and societal.

The gospel promises issued by Christ are transformative. Each one reflects His authority and demonstrates His victory:

1. Freedom from Condemnation: Christ has set us free from guilt and shame. The weight of sin no longer has power over us, for we are justified by His blood (Romans 8:1).
2. Victory Over Death: Death is no longer the final word. Christ’s resurrection ensures eternal life for His people, as the sting of death has been removed (1 Corinthians 15:54-55).
3. Adoption into God’s Family: Through Christ, believers are adopted as sons and daughters of God. This new identity offers both security and purpose (John 1:12).
4. Peace with God: The enmity that once separated us from God has been removed. We now have peace with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1).

Living Under Christ’s Lordship

As those who belong to Christ, we live under His reign in every area of life. His victory wasn’t merely a private spiritual truth—it has public implications. The Kingdom He inaugurated extends to all spheres: personal, familial, communal, and even societal.

1. Authority Over All of Life: Christ’s reign is not limited to church matters. His authority extends to our families, workplaces, communities, and governments. The question for us is whether we live in light of His lordship. Are our decisions, relationships, and actions aligned with His Kingdom values?
2. The Public Square: While Baptists affirm the separation of church and state, Christ’s Kingdom has implications for how Christians engage in the world. The gospel informs how we vote, serve, and advocate for justice. Are we active participants in shaping our communities in ways that reflect Christ’s righteousness and mercy?
3. The Church as an Embassy: The church is the visible outpost of Christ’s Kingdom. It is where His decrees are proclaimed and where His people live out their citizenship together. Are we committed to the church as the primary place where Christ’s Kingdom is made visible?
4. Vocation as Worship: Every Christian vocation is a calling to glorify God. Whether in business, education, healthcare, or the home, our work is a means of advancing Christ’s Kingdom. Are we working with integrity and excellence as an act of worship?
5. Proclaiming Christ’s Victory: Christ’s triumph over the powers of darkness is not only a personal assurance but a message to be declared. Do we proclaim this victory in our words, actions, and prayers? Are we bold in sharing the hope of the gospel with a world still enslaved to the old order?
6. Hope for the Restoration of All Things: Christ’s Kingdom has been inaugurated but is not yet fully realized. We live in the tension of the “already” and the “not yet,” awaiting the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). This hope should shape how we endure trials, advocate for justice, and proclaim the gospel.

What can you do with all this?

Are there areas of your life where you are still living as though the old administration is in charge. Do you carry guilt that Christ has already forgiven? Do you strive for control instead of resting in His peace?

Celebrate the gospel promises. Write down one or two promises that resonate with you and take time to meditate on them. Let the reality of Christ’s victory renew your heart.

Consider how you can actively live out the Kingdom in your spheres of influence. This could involve serving in your church, engaging in public life with a biblical worldview, or sharing the gospel with someone in need of hope.

Anchor your life in the hope of Christ’s return and the restoration of all things. Let this future reality shape how you navigate today’s challenges.