Embracing Our Identity as Children of God
Summary
Certainly! Here’s a summary, key takeaways, and YouTube chapters based on the transcript you provided:
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Summary (300-500 words):
Today, we gathered to reflect on the profound reality of what happens next after Easter, after the resurrection of Jesus. The resurrection isn’t just a one-day event to be celebrated and then left behind; it’s a living truth that shapes our identity every single day. We explored 1 John 3:1-3, where John invites us to “see what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” This isn’t a future promise—it’s a present reality. God calls us His children right now, not because of anything we’ve done, but because of His unconditional love and grace.
We considered how, in our transactional world, it’s almost unthinkable to receive such a gift without earning it. Yet, just as a newborn is instantly and completely loved by their parents, so God loves us from the moment we believe. This love is not based on our performance or our past, but on His character and His choice to make us His own. This new identity can feel both comforting and challenging, especially when we’re aware of the gap between who we are and who we’re called to be.
But God’s work in us is ongoing. He calls us today what He is shaping us to become tomorrow. Like a potter with clay, He sees the finished product even when we only see the raw material. Our transformation is a process—He is patient, gracious, and committed to completing the good work He began in us. Unlike the world, which defines us by our past actions or failures, God defines us by our new identity in Christ. Our past is not our identity; it’s been washed away, and we are being made new.
This truth is not always easy to believe or live out, especially in a world that values achievement and holds onto past mistakes. But the church exists to help us walk in this new identity, to remind us of who we are, and to support us as we grow. Whether you struggle to believe you’re truly God’s child, wrestle with the slow process of transformation, or find it hard to let go of your past, you’re not alone. God invites us to step into this new life, to receive His love, and to allow Him to shape us into the likeness of His Son. The invitation is open to all—to receive, to grow, and to walk in the freedom and purpose He offers.
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Key Takeaways
- God’s Love Is Immediate and Unconditional
Just as a newborn is instantly loved by their parents, God’s love for us is not earned or delayed. The moment we believe, we are fully and completely His children. This love is not transactional or based on our merit, but is a gift freely given, challenging the way our world operates and inviting us to rest in His grace. [33:05]
- Our Identity Is Present, Not Just Future
Being a child of God is not a distant hope but a present reality. God calls us His children now, even as He continues to shape us into the likeness of Christ. This means our worth and belonging are secure today, regardless of how unfinished or imperfect we may feel. [36:54]
- Transformation Is a Process, Not an Event
God gives us our new identity up front, but He patiently works in us over time to conform us to that identity. Like a potter shaping clay, He sees the finished product even when we cannot. Our journey of sanctification is marked by His faithfulness, not our ability to pay Him back or perfect ourselves. [42:33]
- We Are Not Defined by Our Past
The world often labels us by our history—our achievements or our failures—but God does not. In Christ, our past is washed away, and we are made new. The enemy may try to convince us that we are still bound by who we were, but God’s word declares that we are a new creation, defined by His love and purpose. [46:13]
- Walking in Our New Identity Requires Willingness and Community
Embracing our identity as God’s children is not always easy; it requires a willingness to step into growth and to seek help when needed. The church is given to us as a community to support, remind, and disciple us as we learn to live out this truth. We must be willing to receive, to grow, and to let others walk alongside us in the journey. [53:48]
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YouTube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[23:40] - Opening Game: Guess the Picture
[25:37] - Celebrating Good Friday and Easter
[29:53] - Introduction to 1 John 3:1-3: What Happens Next
[31:05] - The Immediate Gift of Being God’s Child
[32:05] - Relationships: Earning vs. Receiving Love
[33:05] - God’s Unconditional Love Illustrated
[34:32] - The Uniqueness of Calling God “Father”
[35:45] - Biblical Foundations of Our Identity
[36:54] - Living as God’s Children Today
[38:26] - Wrestling with the Gap Between Identity and Behavior
[40:24] - God’s Gift vs. the World’s Transactions
[42:33] - Transformation: The Potter and the Clay
[44:29] - Staff Stories and Pottery Illustration
[46:13] - God Defines Us by Our Future, Not Our Past
[51:38] - Common Struggles with Identity
[53:05] - The Church’s Role in Our Growth
[53:48] - The Call to Willingness and Discipleship
[55:01] - Invitation to Salvation and Next Steps
[56:54] - Baptism, Communion, and Closing Announcements
[58:08] - Final Encouragement and Dismissal
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: “What Happens Next? Living as God’s Children”
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### Bible Reading
1 John 3:1-3 (ESV)
> See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 John 3:1, what is the reason the world does not recognize or understand us as God’s children?
2. In verse 2, what does John say about our current identity and our future transformation?
3. What does the word “purifies” mean in the context of verse 3, and what does it say about those who hope in Jesus?
4. The sermon compared God’s love for us to the immediate love parents have for a newborn. What are some ways this love is described as different from the way the world usually operates? [[33:05]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The passage says, “we are God’s children now.” Why is it important that this is a present reality and not just a future hope? How might this change the way someone views themselves? [[36:54]]
2. The sermon talked about the “gap” between who we are and who we’re called to be. Why do you think God gives us our new identity up front, even though we’re still a work in progress? [[38:26]]
3. How does the illustration of the potter and the clay help us understand God’s process of transformation in our lives? [[44:29]]
4. The world often defines people by their past actions or failures. Why do you think it’s so hard for us to let go of our old identity, even after God has made us new? [[46:13]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon said God’s love is immediate and unconditional, like a parent’s love for a newborn. Do you find it hard to believe that God loves you this way? Why or why not? What would change in your life if you truly believed this? [[33:05]]
2. John says we are God’s children now, even though we’re not yet fully like Jesus. Where do you most feel the tension between your current struggles and your new identity? How can you remind yourself of who you are in Christ this week? [[36:54]]
3. The pastor shared about his family’s mantra, “We do hard things.” Is there a hard thing God is calling you to do right now as His child? What would it look like to step into it, trusting your identity in Him? [[36:54]]
4. The sermon used the example of a potter shaping clay. Are there areas in your life where you are resisting God’s shaping or refining work? What would it look like to surrender those areas to Him? [[44:29]]
5. The world often labels us by our past. Is there a specific label or memory from your past that you struggle to let go of? How can you replace that label with the truth of your identity in Christ? [[46:13]]
6. The pastor said, “You can’t disciple someone who doesn’t want to be discipled.” Are you willing to let others help you grow in your faith? What step could you take this week to invite someone into your journey—whether it’s asking for prayer, joining a group, or seeking accountability? [[53:48]]
7. The church is meant to help us walk in our new identity. How has being part of a church community helped you grow? Is there a way you can encourage someone else in their identity as a child of God this week? [[53:05]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Thank God for calling us His children, for loving us unconditionally, and for patiently shaping us into the likeness of Jesus. Ask for help to believe and live out this new identity, to let go of the past, and to walk together as a community of faith.
Devotional
Day 1: Receiving God’s Love Without Conditions or Delay
God’s love for you is immediate and unearned, like the instant love a parent has for a newborn. This love is not something you have to work for or prove yourself worthy of; it is a gift freely given by God’s grace. In a world that often measures worth by achievement or performance, this unconditional love invites you to rest fully in God’s acceptance and care. You are God’s child right now, not because of what you have done, but because of who He is and His choice to call you His own. This truth challenges the transactional nature of human relationships and opens the door to a deeper experience of grace and belonging. [33:05]
“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” — 1 John 3:1a (ESV)
Reflection: When you feel unworthy or distant from God’s love, what is one way you can remind yourself today that His love is given freely and immediately, not earned? Can you identify a moment when you tried to “earn” God’s love and ask Him to help you receive it as a gift instead?
Day 2: Embracing Your Present Identity as God’s Child
Being called a child of God is not a promise for the future but a reality for today. Even if you feel incomplete or imperfect, God’s declaration of your identity stands firm. This means your value and belonging are secure now, regardless of your struggles or shortcomings. God’s calling invites you to live from this place of assurance, knowing that your worth is not tied to your behavior but to His unchanging love. This present identity shapes how you see yourself and how you relate to others, offering a foundation of hope and confidence amid life’s uncertainties. [36:54]
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” — 1 Peter 2:9 (ESV)
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you struggle to believe you are truly God’s child today? How can you practically remind yourself of your present identity in Christ this week, especially when doubts or insecurities arise?
Day 3: Trusting God’s Patient Work in Your Transformation
God gives you your new identity immediately, but the process of becoming like Christ unfolds over time. Like a potter shaping clay, God sees the finished masterpiece even when you only see the rough edges. This transformation is not about your ability to perform or fix yourself but about God’s faithful work in your life. You are invited to trust His patience and grace as He molds you, knowing that He is committed to completing the good work He began. This journey requires surrender, perseverance, and hope, especially when progress feels slow or invisible. [42:33]
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” — Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
Reflection: In what specific area of your life do you feel God is still shaping you? How can you cooperate with His work today by surrendering control and trusting His timing?
Day 4: Letting Go of Your Past to Live in God’s New Creation
The world often defines you by your past mistakes or achievements, but God sees you differently. In Christ, your past is washed away, and you are made new. This means you are not bound by former failures or labels but are free to live in the purpose and identity God has given you. The enemy may try to remind you of old wounds or sins, but God’s word declares that you are a new creation, defined by His love and future hope. Embracing this truth requires courage to release old narratives and step into the freedom God offers. [46:13]
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Reflection: What is one past failure or identity you need to release today? Can you ask God to help you see yourself through His eyes as a new creation, not defined by what has been but by what He is making you to be?
Day 5: Choosing Willingness and Community in Your Spiritual Growth
Walking in your new identity as God’s child requires intentional willingness to grow and the humility to seek support. The church community is given to you as a place to be reminded of who you are, to receive encouragement, and to be discipled in this journey. Growth is not meant to be walked alone; it flourishes in relationships where others can walk alongside you. This means being open to receiving help, accountability, and teaching, as well as offering the same to others. Your willingness to engage in community is a vital step toward living fully in the freedom and purpose God has for you. [53:48]
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” — Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
Reflection: Who in your church or faith community can you invite into your journey of growth this week? What is one practical step you can take to be more open to receiving support or accountability?
Quotes
You don't realize you didn't earn it. Like there's just nothing you did. If you were a believer here today, you did not like do enough good things for God. And he was like, okay, now you've earned my love. That's not how it worked. It's that he has given it to us. Like a baby coming from the womb has not done one thing in a tangible, practical sense for their parents, yet they receive 1 ,000 % of their love from the jump. They've done nothing for you. In fact, they've only cost you. And it's difficult and it's hard, especially early on and still. It is. It is. And you give it to them freely. Right? And this is true with biological children and with adopt. Like it doesn't matter. You just give it to them completely. on. [00:33:29] (47 seconds)
And so we got to do some things to assuage that anger. God does have anger. He hates sin. He's full of justice and righteousness, but he loves us enough to send his son Jesus for us. You know, we're the only religion with a song that says, Jesus loves me, this I know. Did you know there is no Allah loves me, this I know? There's no Buddha loves me, this I know. There's just no other version of that, and it makes us weird. And then we go on calling God. Have you just forgotten how incredible this is? We walk around calling the God of the universe who created all things with a word, and with his breath, and with his power, who knows all of our brokenness in the beginning from the end? We call that God Father. [00:34:55] (48 seconds)
But what does help is when you believe that for whatever reason, your identity and who you were made to be matches the challenge that you have facing you. And so this reminder, I said to her, hey, you're a Welch and we do hard things. Like that's just who you are. And so you've got that undergirding and that backing that we just step into this and we do hard things. If you have confessed Christ as Lord, this text, what it's saying is you are a child of God, right? It's not you need to pump up your own pride or anything like that. No, it's about who you are. Like it's about who your father is. Like when we face this world, it's like, I know who my dad, like I know who this is. This is my identity. I am a child of God. Not you will be, not in the future. Many people have a future tense belief about Christianity that, you know, Jesus saves us so that one day we will be. No, today you are a child of God. That's your new last name, right? That's your identity in the present tense. And if you're anything like me, this truth is somehow both encouraging and makes you cringe a little bit. [00:38:26] (73 seconds)
Because there's part of you, if you're like me, who knows when there is a dissonance between what I do and my identity, right? Because if I know that I'm a child of God, I know all the times I don't act like a child of God. And that is a challenge. I want you to take heart because while he calls you that today, gives you that identity in the here and now, he's still at work. Here's kind of our sentence as we continue. Here's how John revealed that progression. He said, or I'm summarizing, it says in the text, right? He calls us today what we will be tomorrow. [00:39:29] (37 seconds)
Our God is gracious and generous and patient, and he conforms us into what he...calls us over time, what he's already given us. Again, not just John. Paul said this in Philippians 1. He said, I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Second Corinthians, Paul said, and we all believers with unveiled face beholding the glory of the Lord are being transformed. This is over time. We're being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. He calls us today what he's turning us into tomorrow. [00:42:42] (44 seconds)
What's interesting though is I could not figure out that that was a mug initially. I knew that's what we were going to make, but it didn't make sense to me. And I thought of this as I was writing this sermon this week about how he calls us today, what we will be tomorrow. Because, because here's how this relates is because when God looks at us, he sees the raw unformed version of us and he already sees what he's forming us into. Or he goes ahead and says, that's a mug. He goes ahead and looks at the, the brokenness, the unformed nature and says, that's my child. Or he just calls it, you know, as if it already were. And then he does the work to turn it into that. Right? I have a hard time calling those things a mug because it looks so unlike a mug, but somehow God sees us, calls us his child, and then transforms us into the image of his son. [00:45:44] (58 seconds)
Here's what I want to say to you is don't resist God's refining work in your life as he turns you into what he's already called you. Right? He truly is the potter and we are the clay. Right? And then one more reminder or clarification that John's going to give us about this growth progression. Here's our complete sentence. He calls us today what we will be tomorrow and not who we have been in the past. [00:46:42] (23 seconds)
And this is what's beautiful about church isn't just one day a year where we celebrate the resurrection. He gave us the church to continually, routinely be in our lives to help us walk in the truth of what God says about us. And that's literally what the church is here for, to help people experience that. And so my question to you is, you know, as we have walked through this text today, just one sentence there, I suspect there's one part of that that's a bigger challenge for you than another. [00:51:20] (33 seconds)
Maybe you struggle with the sanctification process. That's the growing process. That's the transformation process. And you need some help in the shaping and refining part. Or maybe, maybe you have a hard time unidentifying from the past. You know, on that note, there's a lot of 12 -step programs that the moment you walk in, they say, hey, my name is Corey and I struggle with this, or I am a this. What I love is the Christ -centered ones like Celebrate Recovery on Fridays that starts with, I am a child of God who used to struggle with this. Right, that's totally different. Maybe you need help re -identifying yourself as he says, not by what you have done. [00:52:03] (46 seconds)
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