Embracing Our New Identity and Purpose in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone! Today, we continue our exploration of freedom from our past, focusing on how God can transform our identities and futures. Last week, we discussed three key points: God's grace is greater than our biggest sins, we are who God says we are, and while we can't change our past, we can change our future. Today, we delve deeper into the idea that our past does not define us and that God can give us a new name, purpose, and future.
Many of us carry labels from past mistakes or traumas, believing lies about ourselves that keep us in bondage. These labels can be self-imposed or given by others, but they do not define our true identity in Christ. We must reject these labels and embrace the new identity that God offers us. To illustrate this, we played a game where we attached labels to names, showing how easily labels can stick and shape our perceptions.
God's truth about us is bigger than any label or past mistake. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we are reminded that anyone in Christ is a new creation; the old has gone, and the new has come. This means that no matter our past, we can have a new identity in Christ. God will replace our old names with new ones, just as He did with Abram and Sarai, who became Abraham and Sarah, the father and mother of many nations.
With a new name comes a new purpose. Simon, who was known for his unpredictability and rashness, was given the name Peter by Jesus, signifying a new purpose as the rock upon which the church would be built. Similarly, God can give us a new purpose that aligns with our new identity.
Finally, a new purpose leads to a new future. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future. We must stop dwelling on the past and start embracing the future God has for us. By changing how we see and speak about the present, we can change our future.
Today, let's break free from the labels of our past and embrace the new names, purposes, and futures that God has for us. Come forward and seek God's face, asking Him to reveal your new identity and calling.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Grace is Greater Than Our Sins: No matter how significant our sins may seem, they are still smaller than God's grace. This truth liberates us from the bondage of guilt and shame, allowing us to embrace the forgiveness and new identity that God offers. [01:05]
2. Rejecting False Labels: We often carry labels from past mistakes or traumas, believing lies about ourselves. These labels do not define us. God's truth about us is bigger than any label or past mistake. We must reject these labels and embrace our true identity in Christ. [02:56]
3. God Gives Us a New Name: Just as God gave new names to Abram and Sarai, He can give us new names that reflect our true identity in Him. These new names signify a transformation and a new beginning, free from the labels of our past. [11:51]
4. A New Name Brings a New Purpose: With a new name comes a new purpose. Simon, who was known for his unpredictability, was given the name Peter, signifying a new purpose as the rock upon which the church would be built. Similarly, God can give us a new purpose that aligns with our new identity. [20:14]
5. A New Purpose Leads to a New Future: Embracing our new identity and purpose in Christ leads to a new future. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future. By changing how we see and speak about the present, we can change our future. [25:07]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:05] - Recap of Last Week's Message
[01:56] - The Bondage of Past Mistakes
[02:56] - Rejecting False Labels
[04:26] - The Power of Labels
[07:09] - Identifying Negative Labels
[09:11] - God's Truth About You
[10:05] - Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17
[11:51] - God Gives You a New Name
[14:06] - Biblical Examples of New Names
[19:12] - A New Name Brings a New Purpose
[20:14] - Simon Becomes Peter
[23:52] - A New Purpose Leads to a New Future
[25:07] - Embracing a Brighter Future
[28:36] - Rahab's Transformation
[34:40] - Invitation to Embrace Your New Name
[38:15] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."
2. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
3. Isaiah 62:2 (NIV): "The nations will see your vindication, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 2 Corinthians 5:17 say about our identity in Christ? How does this verse describe the transformation that occurs when someone is in Christ?
2. According to Jeremiah 29:11, what kind of plans does God have for us? How does this verse assure us about our future?
3. In the sermon, what were some of the labels that people might carry from their past? ([02:56])
4. How did God change the names and purposes of Abram and Sarai, and what new names did He give them? ([14:06])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of being a "new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) challenge the labels we might carry from our past? What does this transformation imply about our identity?
2. What does it mean to have a new name given by God, as mentioned in Isaiah 62:2? How does this new name reflect a change in our identity and purpose? ([11:51])
3. How can the assurance of God's plans for us in Jeremiah 29:11 impact the way we view our future, especially when we feel defined by past mistakes or labels? ([25:07])
4. In the sermon, Simon was given the new name Peter, which came with a new purpose. How did this change affect his life and mission? ([20:14])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a label from your past that you feel has defined you. How can you begin to reject this label and embrace your new identity in Christ? ([02:56])
2. God's grace is greater than our biggest sins. How can this truth help you let go of guilt and shame from past mistakes? ([01:05])
3. Think about the new name and purpose God might have for you. What steps can you take to grow into this new identity, even if it feels intimidating or unworthy at first? ([16:17])
4. Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of God's plans to prosper us and give us hope. How can you start changing the way you see and speak about your present circumstances to align with this promise? ([25:07])
5. Identify a specific area in your life where you feel stuck in the past. What practical steps can you take this week to start embracing the future God has for you? ([24:26])
6. How can you surround yourself with people who will speak life into you and help you grow into your new identity in Christ? Are there any relationships you need to reevaluate? ([37:47])
7. Rahab's story shows that God can change our future regardless of our past. How can her transformation inspire you to seek God's new purpose for your life? ([34:40])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Grace is Greater Than Our Sins
God's grace is a powerful force that surpasses even our most significant sins. No matter how grave our mistakes or how deep our guilt, God's grace is always greater. This truth liberates us from the bondage of guilt and shame, allowing us to embrace the forgiveness and new identity that God offers. When we understand that God's grace is bigger than our sins, we can begin to live in the freedom that Christ has provided for us. This freedom is not just a concept but a transformative reality that changes how we see ourselves and our future.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we are reminded that anyone in Christ is a new creation; the old has gone, and the new has come. This means that no matter our past, we can have a new identity in Christ. God's grace makes this possible, and it is a gift that we must accept and live out daily. By embracing this grace, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that our past does not define us, but God's love and grace do. [01:05]
Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV): "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
Reflection: Think of a past mistake that still haunts you. How can you embrace God's grace today to move past this mistake and live in the freedom He offers?
Day 2: Rejecting False Labels
Many of us carry labels from past mistakes or traumas, believing lies about ourselves that keep us in bondage. These labels can be self-imposed or given by others, but they do not define our true identity in Christ. We must reject these labels and embrace the new identity that God offers us. God's truth about us is bigger than any label or past mistake. By understanding and accepting this truth, we can break free from the chains that hold us back and live in the fullness of our God-given identity.
In the sermon, a game was played where labels were attached to names, illustrating how easily labels can stick and shape our perceptions. This exercise showed the power of labels and how they can distort our self-image. However, God's truth is that we are His beloved children, and our worth is found in Him alone. We must actively reject the false labels and lies and instead, embrace the truth of who we are in Christ. [02:56]
Isaiah 62:2 (ESV): "The nations shall see your righteousness, and all the kings your glory, and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give."
Reflection: Identify a false label you have believed about yourself. How can you replace this label with the truth of your identity in Christ today?
Day 3: God Gives Us a New Name
Just as God gave new names to Abram and Sarai, He can give us new names that reflect our true identity in Him. These new names signify a transformation and a new beginning, free from the labels of our past. When God changes our name, it is a declaration of our new identity and purpose in Him. This new name is not just a label but a reflection of the new creation we have become in Christ.
Abram became Abraham, and Sarai became Sarah, signifying their new roles as the father and mother of many nations. Similarly, God can give us a new name that aligns with His plans and purposes for our lives. This new name is a reminder of His promises and the new life we have in Him. Embracing this new name means letting go of the past and stepping into the future God has prepared for us. [11:51]
Revelation 2:17 (ESV): "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it."
Reflection: What new name do you believe God is giving you? How does this new name reflect your true identity in Christ?
Day 4: A New Name Brings a New Purpose
With a new name comes a new purpose. Simon, who was known for his unpredictability and rashness, was given the name Peter by Jesus, signifying a new purpose as the rock upon which the church would be built. Similarly, God can give us a new purpose that aligns with our new identity. This new purpose is not just a task but a calling that reflects God's plans for our lives.
When we embrace our new name and purpose, we begin to see our lives through the lens of God's plans and promises. This new purpose gives us direction and meaning, helping us to live out our faith in practical ways. It is a call to action, a call to live out the identity and purpose that God has given us. By embracing this new purpose, we can make a significant impact in our world for God's glory. [20:14]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: What new purpose do you believe God is calling you to? How can you begin to live out this purpose in your daily life?
Day 5: A New Purpose Leads to a New Future
Embracing our new identity and purpose in Christ leads to a new future. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future. By changing how we see and speak about the present, we can change our future. This new future is not just about personal success but about living out God's plans and purposes for our lives.
When we stop dwelling on the past and start embracing the future God has for us, we begin to see our lives through the lens of His promises. This new future is filled with hope, purpose, and the assurance of God's presence and guidance. By aligning our lives with God's plans, we can experience the fullness of His blessings and the joy of living out our true identity and purpose in Him. [25:07]
Isaiah 43:18-19 (ESV): "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to embrace the future God has for you? How can you change your perspective to align with God's promises and plans for your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Your biggest sins are still smaller than God's grace. That still sounds good this way, doesn't it? Amen. Number two, you are who God says you are. You are not what you have done. Amen. Amen. And number three, you can't... You can't change your past, but you can change your future. Amen." [01:05] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God's truth about you is bigger than any truth in your life. I want to say it again. I want that to get in your spirit. God's truth about you is bigger than any truth in your life. In fact, if you carry a label that you may or may not even deserve, I want you to understand what's true about you today does not have to be true about you tomorrow." [09:11] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new. Amen. I want to read it again. I like it from the New Living Translation. This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone, gone, gone. Amen. And a new life has begun." [10:05] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Guess what? That really does mean anyone. Anyone. It doesn't matter who you are. It doesn't matter what you've done. It doesn't matter where you've come from, how bad your past is, how true the label about you might be. It does not matter because anyone who belongs to Christ is a new creature. Amen." [10:45] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Some of you, God's going to give you the name Forgiven. You might not feel like it, but you're going to grow into your new name in Christ. Some of you, God's going to give you the name Overcomer. Hallelujah. Your whole life you've been fighting. You feel like somebody's had their head on the back of your neck, amen. I'm never going to overcome what I'm facing. God is going to give you a new name. I'm the head and not the tail." [18:12] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "For so many of us, we are held in bondage from things that happened in our past. A lot of us, maybe someone betrayed us or they lied to us or they hurt us. And maybe you're still carrying around some bitterness or some... Resentment or unforgiveness or just pain. Or maybe we made our own mess. Anybody here ever made a mess on your own? It wasn't even anybody else's fault." [01:56] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What I'd like to ask you about today is, what, if there is one, is the negative label that follows your name? Maybe it's followed you through life, or maybe it's new to you in recent years. Are you the lazy one, the hot-headed one? Are you the liar? Are you the one who can't be trusted? Are you the martyr? Are you the whiner? Are you the know-it-all? Are you the one who's terrible with the money? Are you the one who always gossips?" [07:50] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God will replace your old name with a new name. Come on. God will do it. Hallelujah. In the book of Isaiah, the Scripture says this. You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. Come on. I like that right now. You're going to be called by a new name. Not by the name that your ex calls you. Not by the name that your haters call you. Not by the name of the people that are jealous of you call you. Come on. You're going to be called by a name that the Lord bestows on you." [11:51] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Your new name and your new purpose means you can have a new future. I want the praise team and musicians to come. I want to close with one last example from the Bible. Her name's mentioned eight times in the Bible. And six of those times, there's a negative label attached to her name. And I can prove it by just saying her first name. And many of you in the audience are going to be able to finish it. Are you ready? Rahab the harlot or prostitute." [28:36] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Too often. Can I just say this in love? We got to quit being victims. We got to quit being victims. We got to quit being martyrs. We got to quit blaming everybody else for all of our problems. And we need to stand up and say, you know what? I'm going to own the part of my life that I need to own. And I'm going to let God help me make changes. Amen. Amen. Your new name and your new purpose means you can have a new future." [27:51] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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