Embracing Our New Identity in Christ

In Colossians 3:1-4, we are reminded of the profound transformation that occurs when we are raised with Christ. This transformation is not merely symbolic but a real change in our identity and existence. We have been raised with Christ, and this new life is characterized by a focus on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Our old self, which was bound by sin and the law, has died, and we have been made alive with Christ. This new self is not just a better version of our old self but a completely new creation, animated and led by the Holy Spirit.

The new self is marked by several key changes. First, we are now inhabited by the Holy Spirit, who guides and empowers us to live in a way that pleases God. This is a life of newness, where we serve in the new way of the Spirit rather than being bound by the old way of the law. Second, we are alive to God, meaning that God is now the central reality of our lives. We live by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. This faith is the defining characteristic of our new identity.

Furthermore, we are alive to righteousness. Sin no longer has the power to control us, and we are compelled by righteousness, love, and holiness. This new life is about bearing fruit for God, not through our efforts but as a natural outflow of our new identity in Christ. We belong to Christ, who was raised from the dead, and our lives are now about glorifying God and doing good for others.

In summary, our new identity in Christ is a reality that we must embrace and live out. We are called to believe in this new identity and become what we already are in Christ. This understanding is crucial in our fight against sin, as it helps us recognize that our true self is not defined by our sinful nature but by our new life in Christ.

Key Takeaways

• 1. Our new self is a creation of God, brought into being through our union with Christ. This new identity is not something we achieve but something we receive through faith. It is a reality that we must embrace and live out daily. [03:00]
• 2. Being raised with Christ means we are now inhabited by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in a new way. This life is characterized by a focus on things above and a commitment to serving God in the newness of the Spirit. [04:17]
• 3. Our new identity in Christ means we are alive to God, with God as the central reality of our lives. We live by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. This faith is the defining characteristic of our new self. [06:39]
• 4. We are alive to righteousness, meaning sin no longer controls us. Our new life is about bearing fruit for God, driven by righteousness, love, and holiness. This is not about our efforts but about the natural outflow of our new identity. [07:42]
• 5. Embracing our new identity in Christ is crucial in our fight against sin. Our true self is not defined by our sinful nature but by our new life in Christ. We must believe in this new identity and become what we already are in Christ. [10:40]
  ** [10:40]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:15] - Raised with Christ
• [00:49] - Understanding Our New Self
• [01:08] - Union with Christ
• [01:44] - Made Alive with Christ
• [02:22] - The New You
• [03:00] - Created by God
• [03:41] - Released from the Law
• [04:17] - Newness of the Spirit
• [05:10] - Walking in Newness of Life
• [06:04] - Alive to God
• [06:39] - Living by Faith
• [07:21] - Alive to Righteousness
• [08:18] - Belonging to Christ
• [09:16] - Bearing Fruit for God
• [10:20] - Embracing Our True Identity

1. According to Colossians 3:1-4, what are believers encouraged to focus on, and why is this focus important? [00:15]
2. How does the sermon describe the transformation that occurs when we are "raised with Christ"? What does this mean for our old self? [00:49]
3. In Romans 7:6, what does it mean to be "released from the law," and how does this relate to serving in the "newness of the Spirit"? [03:41]
4. What does Galatians 2:19-20 say about living to God, and how does this relate to our new identity in Christ? [06:39]

1. How does the concept of being "raised with Christ" change the way believers view their identity and purpose in life? [00:49]
2. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the life of a believer according to the sermon, and how does this impact daily living? [04:17]
3. How does understanding our new identity in Christ help us in our fight against sin, as discussed in the sermon? [10:40]
4. What does it mean to be "alive to righteousness," and how does this affect the way we interact with others and the world around us? [07:42]

1. Reflect on your current focus in life. Are there areas where you need to shift your focus to "things above"? What practical steps can you take this week to make this shift? [00:15]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of embracing our new identity in Christ. How can you remind yourself daily of this new identity, especially when facing challenges or temptations? [10:40]
3. Consider the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. Are there specific areas where you need to rely more on the Spirit's guidance and empowerment? How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit? [04:17]
4. In what ways can you live out being "alive to righteousness" in your community or workplace? Identify one specific action you can take this week to demonstrate righteousness, love, or holiness. [07:42]
5. Think about a time when you felt controlled by sin. How does understanding your new identity in Christ change your perspective on that experience? What steps can you take to live in the freedom Christ offers? [10:40]
6. How can you practically "bear fruit for God" in your daily life? Identify one area where you can serve others or glorify God this week. [08:18]
7. Reflect on the statement "believe that and become what you are." How can this mindset influence your spiritual growth and daily decisions? What is one area of your life where you need to apply this truth? [10:20]