Note 14 at 1Co 1:30: By the work of God through the new birth, we are now "in Christ Jesus." This terminology was used frequently by Paul to describe our relationship with Christ. The word "in," as used in this verse, means a condition, state, or attribute.

Note 15 at 1Co 1:30: The new birth (see note 2 at Joh 3:3) doesn't just produce a changed life but an exchanged life. That is to say, the Lord doesn't make our flesh wise, righteous, sanctified, or redeemed. Instead, He becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

The Christian life is not just difficult to live; it is impossible to live through our own ability. It is only when we cease to operate in our carnal selves and let Jesus live through us that we can obtain victory.

For instance, those who depend on their own intellect to figure out the direction for their lives will always make mistakes. The proper way for Christians to act is to humble themselves and ask God for direction. Then the wisdom of Christ within them will come out and He will direct their paths (Pr 3:6).

Instead of depending on our acts of righteousness to earn the blessings of God, we should accept the fact Jesus has given us His righteousness. In Christ (or through Christ) is the only way that we will ever be righteous enough to approach God.

Our bodies and souls are not yet redeemed (see note 11 at Ro 8:23), but our spirits are. Jesus lives in the spirits of believers, and all His wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption are available to us if we depend on Him instead of on our own abilities.