Embracing Our Identity as the Body of Christ
Summary
Each of us is a unique and essential part of the body of Christ, created with purpose and intention. Just as every part of the human body has a role—whether visible or hidden—so too does every member of the church. When even one part is missing or not functioning, the whole body feels the impact, and other parts must compensate in ways they were never meant to. This is why it’s so important to know who you are, to understand your name, your identity, and your calling in Christ. God knows you by name, and your name carries meaning, history, and destiny. Throughout Scripture, God often changed names to reflect new identity and purpose—Abram to Abraham, Saul to Paul, Simon to Peter—signifying transformation and calling.
Names matter, not just for individuals but for communities. Our church’s journey from Trinity Chapel to Trinity Living Center, and now to North Point Church, reflects not just a change in signage but a deepening understanding of our mission and identity. “North” points us upward, toward God, serving as a spiritual compass. “Point” reminds us to be focused and intentional, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. “Church” signifies that we are a community, a body, not just a building or a name, but a living, breathing fellowship of believers called to strengthen, build up, and encourage one another.
We are called not to merely survive, but to thrive—spirit, soul, and body. Our identity is rooted in Christ, and our purpose is to be a place where God is seen, love is felt, and lives are changed. This is not just about what happens within these walls, but about carrying the presence of God wherever we go. The kingdom of God is within us, and as we gather, serve, and love, we become a living testimony of His grace and power. Let us not forget the basics: we are children of God, disciples, and carriers of His kingdom. Our faith is activated by love, and our calling is to reach up, reach in, and reach out—making disciples and living out the abundant life Jesus promised.
Key Takeaways
- Every member of the body of Christ is vital, regardless of visibility or perceived importance. When one part is missing or hurting, the whole body suffers and must compensate, often in ways that are unsustainable. Recognizing your unique role and embracing your God-given identity brings health and strength to the entire community. [24:53]
- Names in Scripture are not arbitrary; they reflect identity, calling, and destiny. God often changed names to mark a transformation or a new purpose, reminding us that our identity is not static but shaped by God’s ongoing work in our lives. Understanding the meaning and significance of your name can unlock a deeper sense of calling and belonging. [36:47]
- The journey of our church’s name reflects a spiritual journey of clarity and mission. “North Point” is more than a title—it’s a declaration of direction, focus, and purpose. Just as a compass points north, our lives and community are to be oriented toward God’s promises, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and moving forward in faith. [47:53]
- The church is not a building, but a living community of believers united in Christ. True fellowship breaks down walls and labels, creating a place where God’s presence dwells, love is tangibly experienced, and lives are transformed. Our calling is to be that place—wherever we go—carrying the kingdom of God within us and extending His love to all. [01:14:14]
- Faith is activated and sustained by love, and love is more than a feeling—it is a lived experience and a mark of true discipleship. As we renew our minds, embrace our identity in Christ, and walk in love, we become a place where God is seen, love is felt, and lives are changed. This is how we thrive, not just survive, fulfilling our calling as the body of Christ. [01:25:09]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[24:53] - The Body of Christ: Every Part Matters
[31:08] - The Power of Presence and Home-Field Advantage
[32:35] - When the Church is Handicapped
[33:27] - Knowing Your Name and Identity
[36:47] - The Significance of Names in Scripture
[40:38] - Biblical Examples: Moses, David, and Jesus
[44:17] - Our Church’s Name Journey
[47:53] - Becoming North Point Church
[49:50] - Identity, Reputation, and Living Out Your Name
[54:12] - Restoration and the Power of Belonging
[01:02:10] - The Meaning of “Point” and Focused Faith
[01:08:02] - Church as Community: Beyond the Building
[01:14:14] - A Place Where God is Seen, Love is Felt
[01:19:07] - The Temple: You Are God’s Dwelling
[01:25:09] - Love in Action: The Mark of Discipleship
[01:32:23] - Living by Faith and Renewing the Mind
[01:39:02] - Closing Blessing and Declaration
Study Guide
North Point Church Small Group Bible Study Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
(The body of Christ and the importance of every member)
2. Psalm 139:1-4
(“O Lord, you have searched me and known me…”)
3. Hebrews 12:2
(“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…”)
---
### Observation Questions
1. In 1 Corinthians 12, what does Paul say about the different parts of the body and their importance?
2. According to Psalm 139:1-4, what does God know about us?
3. The sermon mentioned several people in the Bible whose names were changed (like Abram to Abraham, Saul to Paul, Simon to Peter). What did these name changes represent? [[38:06]]
4. What does Hebrews 12:2 tell us to do with our focus and attention? How does this relate to the meaning of “North Point” in our church’s name? [[01:02:10]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul uses the image of a body to describe the church? What does this teach us about our role in the church community? [[24:53]]
2. The sermon said, “When even one part is missing or not functioning, the whole body feels the impact.” What are some ways you’ve seen this happen in a church or group? [[32:35]]
3. The pastor talked about the significance of names in Scripture and in our lives. Why do you think God sometimes changes people’s names? What does that say about identity and calling? [[36:47]]
4. The church’s journey from Trinity Chapel to North Point Church was described as more than just a name change. What does it mean for a church (or a person) to “find their name” or identity in Christ? [[47:53]]
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon said every member of the body of Christ is vital, even if their role is hidden or seems less important. What is one way you can use your gifts or presence to strengthen our church community this month? [[24:53]]
2. The pastor shared about times when the church felt “handicapped” because certain people or gifts were missing. Is there a place in the church where you feel called to serve, but haven’t stepped in yet? What’s holding you back? [[32:35]]
3. Think about your own name and story. Do you know what your name means? How does your name, family history, or personal story shape your sense of calling or purpose? [[36:47]]
4. “North” in North Point Church is about direction—pointing upward to God. Is there an area in your life where you need to re-orient your focus toward God? What practical step can you take this week to do that? [[01:02:10]]
5. The sermon said, “The church is not a building, but a living community of believers.” How can you help make our church a place where God is seen, love is felt, and lives are changed—both inside and outside these walls? [[01:14:14]]
6. The pastor challenged us not just to survive, but to thrive in spirit, soul, and body. What is one area of your life where you want to move from “surviving” to “thriving”? What support do you need from your small group to help you? [[33:27]]
7. Love is more than a feeling—it’s a lived experience. Who is someone you can show God’s love to in a practical way this week? What will you do? [[01:25:09]]
---
Close in prayer, asking God to help each person embrace their unique identity and calling, and to make our church a place where God is seen, love is felt, and lives are changed.
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Your Unique Role Strengthens the Whole Body
Every believer is a vital and irreplaceable part of the body of Christ, regardless of how visible or prominent their role may seem. When one member is absent or struggling, the entire community feels the strain, often forcing other members to take on burdens they were not designed to carry. Recognizing and embracing your God-given identity and purpose brings health and vitality not only to your own spiritual life but also to the entire church family. Your presence and participation matter deeply, and God’s design ensures that every role, whether seen or unseen, contributes to the flourishing of the whole.
Understanding your unique calling helps you to serve with confidence and joy, knowing that you are fulfilling a divine purpose. When you step into your role fully, the body of Christ functions as it was intended—harmoniously and powerfully. This interconnectedness calls for humility and mutual care, as each part supports the others in love and strength. Let this truth encourage you to discover and live out your distinct place in God’s kingdom. [24:53]
Isaiah 58:11
And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.
Reflection: What specific gifts or roles has God uniquely given you to serve the church, and how can you begin to step into them more fully this week?
Day 2: Your Name Reveals God’s Transforming Purpose
Names in Scripture carry profound significance, often marking moments of transformation, new identity, and divine calling. God’s renaming of individuals like Abram to Abraham or Saul to Paul signals a shift in destiny and purpose, reminding us that our identity is not fixed but continually shaped by God’s work in our lives. Understanding the meaning and history behind your own name can unlock a deeper awareness of who you are in Christ and the mission He has entrusted to you.
This ongoing transformation invites you to embrace the new identity God offers daily, shedding old limitations and stepping into the fullness of your calling. Your name is more than a label; it is a spiritual marker of belonging, destiny, and purpose. Reflecting on this truth can inspire you to live intentionally, aligned with the identity God has crafted uniquely for you. [36:47]
Genesis 17:5
No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.
Reflection: Take time today to research or reflect on the meaning of your name—how might God be inviting you to live into the purpose and identity it represents?
Day 3: North Point: A Compass for Spiritual Direction
The evolution of the church’s name from Trinity Chapel to North Point Church symbolizes a deepening clarity of mission and spiritual focus. “North” serves as a metaphorical compass pointing upward toward God, reminding the community to fix their eyes on Jesus, the ultimate source of guidance and faith. “Point” emphasizes intentionality and focus, calling believers to live with purpose and direction in their spiritual journey. Together, these elements declare a commitment to moving forward in faith, rooted in God’s promises and centered on Christ.
This name journey reflects the church’s identity as a community oriented toward God’s kingdom, not merely a physical location or institution. It challenges each member to align their personal lives with this spiritual compass, fostering a collective movement toward growth, faithfulness, and mission. Embracing this direction invites a renewed sense of purpose and unity in the body of Christ. [47:53]
Psalm 48:14
That this is God, our God forever and ever. He will guide us forever.
Reflection: In what ways can you reorient your daily decisions and priorities to align more closely with the “north point” of your faith—Jesus as your spiritual compass?
Day 4: The Church as a Living, Loving Community
The church transcends physical buildings and names; it is a living, breathing community of believers united in Christ. True fellowship breaks down barriers, labels, and walls, creating a space where God’s presence dwells tangibly, love is experienced deeply, and lives are transformed. This community is called to be a place of restoration, encouragement, and spiritual growth, both within its walls and wherever its members go.
Being part of this living body means carrying the kingdom of God within you and extending His love outward. It is a call to embody God’s grace in everyday relationships and to build a fellowship that reflects heaven’s unity and compassion. This understanding challenges believers to see themselves as integral to a dynamic, relational expression of God’s kingdom on earth. [01:14:14]
Ephesians 2:19-20
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.
Reflection: How can you actively contribute to breaking down walls and fostering genuine community in your church or small group this week?
Day 5: Love as the Active Mark of True Discipleship
Faith is not a static belief but is activated and sustained by love, which is more than an emotion—it is a lived experience and the defining characteristic of authentic discipleship. As believers renew their minds and embrace their identity in Christ, walking daily in love becomes the pathway to thriving spiritually, emotionally, and physically. This love is visible and tangible, transforming lives and communities as it flows through the body of Christ.
Thriving in faith means moving beyond mere survival to a vibrant, abundant life marked by love in action. This love fuels mission, strengthens relationships, and fulfills the calling to be carriers of God’s kingdom. It challenges believers to live intentionally, reflecting Christ’s heart in every interaction and decision. [01:25:09]
Colossians 3:14
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Reflection: Identify one practical way you can demonstrate Christ’s love tangibly to someone in your life today, and commit to doing it with intentionality.
Quotes
``And God is a God of restoration, and he has a full body, and every person is set in a place in the church, in the body of Christ to strengthen, build up, and encourage. I'm here to tell you, you are significant. When you're not here, you are truly missed. We feel it. We feel it. [00:30:45] (23 seconds)
There's a momentum that happens. Like, when you go to play sports and activities like that, there's always a what type of an advantage? Home -filled advantage. I'm here to tell you, this is your home. There's a home -filled advantage when you walk in these doors. Everybody's rooting for you, for you. Everybody's on the same page. Everybody's here to be a place where God has seen, love has felt, and lives are changed. [00:31:58] (32 seconds)
See, our name is going to be a reflection of who we are. A reflection of who you are. The power of the name changes. We see it all through the scripture. God changes the name to signify that new identity. I mean, we changed our name from Trinity Chapel, Trinity Living Center to North Point Church, but North Point Church, we still believe in the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. We still are a chapel. We're still a church. We're still the body of Christ. [00:48:17] (29 seconds)
see God's a God of restoration some of you might be like well I'm not amputee I'm the I'm that person that you know I felt like I was a part I felt like I was a part and then you're like I'm not a part no more and you feel like you're that finger that's been thrown away and you're like there's no way I can come back there's no way I can come back but God is a God of restoration and he'll make all things new [00:54:36] (26 seconds)
my help comes from the lord the maker of heaven and earth wow our name points us straight straight to the scripture of psalms 121 1 it is so significant in our journey as the church to know who we are that we must continue to lift our eyes to the north because if we lift our eyes to true north which is a hope and faith we're not moved by what we see feel or hear we're not moved by seats being missing or people not showing up we're not moved by the economy we're not moved by the weather we are moved by the spirit of god and what god is saying because we walk by faith and not by sight it is in our name of how we walk we walk north we walk by keeping our eyes on god we focus on that which takes us to our next point y 'all get that one don't worry you'll get it here in about a few minutes i'll i'll just sit and wait for our next is going to be [01:00:46] (61 seconds)
the kingdom of heaven is like a net the kingdom of heaven and the bible says the kingdom of heaven dwells inside of you dwells inside of you the kingdom inside of you is going to catch all types of people around you you know it's just it don't matter just throw it in the sea it don't matter where you throw me people are going to get caught but it's not you that's going to catch it it's the kingdom of god it's the righteousness and the peace and the joy and the holy ghost that dwells inside of you it's the light that's inside you that attracts them man i think about john mills that we honored on friday a few days ago john mills was the pioneer the first person him and deke was the first person to go into the use unit he did the first prison ministry of kairos in the use unit first one he's a pioneer and i got to meet three gentlemen three gentlemen that were sentenced 99 years over 99 years not together each one 99 years oh did i did you catch what i just said i got to meet and eat and sit down at a table with these three gentlemen that had 99 each of them had 99 years to hear their revelation of the goodness of god and how things change and not to listen to the stupid of the world but know that they are truly the body of christ whoa [01:12:49] (84 seconds)
You are the temple of the most high God. You are a place where God has seen love is felt and lives are changed. And every single one of you will leave your house this week. That's why you're here. So everywhere you go, you will be a place where God has seen lives are changed in Jesus' name. You will be a place that you will continue to show people hope and faith and point them north because you're going to be strategic in where you go and it's going to be to the body of Christ. [01:19:49] (31 seconds)
Do you see that as your identity or do you see yourself as a person that's treading water about to go under and you're just trying to survive? I'm here to tell you, you're not here to survive. You're here to thrive because my God is abundant. He's a God of abundance. [01:20:28] (15 seconds)
It becomes that what if becomes an even if. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Even if you throw me in the fire, we're still going to serve our God. We're going to worship God with all our heart, soul, and mind. And you will see that our God is Lord. You ain't going to change me. Even if. It was not a, well, what if God shows up? Oh, no. He has already showed up. He's always with me. Because he says he's never going to leave me or forsake me. Goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life. Who is for me? Who can be against me? If God is for me. It's not if. He is. [01:23:19] (39 seconds)
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