Seeing Ourselves Through God's Eyes: Embracing Our Identity
Summary
### Summary
Today, we embarked on a new series titled "Reflections," focusing on how we perceive ourselves versus how God sees us. We began by acknowledging that distractions and worldly influences often distort our vision of ourselves. God calls us to see ourselves through His eyes, which is a true reflection unmarred by sin or worldly corruption. We explored various scriptures to understand this divine perspective, starting with Ephesians 2:12-13, which highlights our transition from being far from God to being brought near through the blood of Christ. This new position in Christ is a profound transformation that changes our identity and standing before God.
We then delved into Romans 8, which describes our right standing with God, emphasizing that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. This right standing is not something we earn but a gift from God, making us clean and righteous. Romans 3:22 further reinforces that our righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, applicable to everyone who believes, regardless of their background.
1 Corinthians 6:11 reminds us that we were once sinners, but now we are cleansed, made holy, and put in right standing with God through Jesus Christ. This transformation is not just a change in status but a complete renewal of our identity. Titus 3:3-7 encapsulates this transformation beautifully, showing that we were once foolish and disobedient, but through God's mercy, we are saved, cleansed, and given new life through the Holy Spirit.
The key message is that we must embrace this divine perspective and reject the distortions of our old life. By meditating on and memorizing Scripture, we can reinforce this truth in our minds and live out our new identity in Christ. This mental discipline is crucial for defeating the enemy's lies and walking in the power and truth of who God says we are.
### Key Takeaways
1. Divine Perspective Over Worldly Distortion: Our vision of ourselves is often distorted by sin and worldly influences. God calls us to see ourselves through His eyes, which is a true reflection unmarred by these distortions. Embracing this divine perspective allows us to live in the fullness of our identity in Christ. [09:40]
2. Transformation Through Christ: Ephesians 2:12-13 highlights our transition from being far from God to being brought near through the blood of Christ. This transformation is not just a change in status but a profound shift in our identity and relationship with God. [13:22]
3. Right Standing With God: Romans 8 emphasizes that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Our right standing with God is a gift, not something we earn. This gift makes us clean and righteous, allowing us to live free from the enemy's accusations. [16:41]
4. Universal Application of Righteousness: Romans 3:22 teaches that our righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, applicable to everyone who believes. This universal application means that no matter our background, we are made right with God through faith. [17:43]
5. Embracing Our New Identity: Titus 3:3-7 shows that we were once foolish and disobedient, but through God's mercy, we are saved, cleansed, and given new life through the Holy Spirit. Embracing this new identity requires mental discipline and a commitment to meditating on and memorizing Scripture. [25:42]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[07:30] - Opening Prayer and Introduction
[08:05] - Types of Reflections
[08:37] - Do You See What I See?
[09:40] - Distorted Vision
[10:13] - Setting Our Vision Straight
[11:18] - Being Someone in Christ
[12:19] - The Potter and the Clay
[12:51] - Before and After in Ephesians
[13:22] - United with Christ
[14:25] - Romans 8: A Feast of Truth
[15:03] - Right Standing with God
[16:41] - No Condemnation in Christ
[17:12] - Romans 3:22: Universal Righteousness
[18:25] - Embracing Our Right Standing
[19:34] - The Truth of Scripture
[20:42] - 1 Corinthians 6:11: Cleansed and Holy
[22:26] - Reinforcing the Truth
[24:03] - Titus 3:3-7: New Birth and New Life
[26:22] - Empowered by Truth
[27:35] - Polishing the Mirror
[29:14] - Romans 8:33-35: Chosen and Loved
[30:48] - What Does God See?
[31:58] - Living Out Our New Identity
[33:06] - What Will You Believe?
[34:50] - Embracing the Truth
[35:35] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 2:12-13 - "Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
2. Romans 8:1 - "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
3. Titus 3:3-7 - "At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Ephesians 2:12-13, what was our condition before being brought near to God through Christ?
2. What does Romans 8:1 say about the state of those who are in Christ Jesus?
3. In Titus 3:3-7, what are some characteristics of our life before and after God's intervention?
4. How does the sermon describe the transformation that occurs when we see ourselves through God's eyes? ([09:40])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to be "brought near" to God through the blood of Christ as mentioned in Ephesians 2:13? How does this change our identity and relationship with God? ([13:22])
2. Romans 8:1 states there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. How does this truth impact our daily lives and our perception of ourselves? ([16:41])
3. Titus 3:3-7 speaks of a complete renewal through the Holy Spirit. How does this renewal manifest in our actions and thoughts? ([25:42])
4. The sermon emphasizes rejecting the distortions of our old life. What are some practical ways to embrace our new identity in Christ? ([27:35])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How does Ephesians 2:12-13 encourage you about your current standing with Him? ([13:22])
2. Romans 8:1 says there is no condemnation for those in Christ. How can you remind yourself of this truth when you feel guilty or ashamed? ([16:41])
3. Titus 3:3-7 describes a transformation through God's mercy. What specific steps can you take this week to live out this new identity? ([25:42])
4. The sermon mentioned the importance of meditating on and memorizing Scripture to reinforce our new identity. What verse will you commit to memorizing this week, and how will you incorporate it into your daily routine? ([33:38])
5. Identify one area in your life where you still see yourself through a distorted lens. How can you begin to see yourself through God's eyes in this area? ([09:40])
6. The sermon talked about the enemy's lies. What is one lie you have believed about yourself, and what truth from Scripture can you use to combat it? ([34:15])
7. How can you support a fellow believer in embracing their new identity in Christ? Share a practical way you can encourage someone this week. ([27:35])
Devotional
Day 1: Seeing Ourselves Through God's Eyes
Our vision of ourselves is often distorted by sin and worldly influences. God calls us to see ourselves through His eyes, which is a true reflection unmarred by these distortions. Embracing this divine perspective allows us to live in the fullness of our identity in Christ. [09:40]
In our daily lives, we are bombarded with messages that can distort our self-image. These messages come from various sources, including media, societal expectations, and even our own past mistakes. However, God invites us to see ourselves through His eyes, which is a perspective free from the blemishes of sin and worldly corruption. This divine perspective is rooted in the truth of who we are in Christ, not in the flawed reflections we often see in the world.
When we embrace God's view of us, we begin to understand our true worth and identity. This understanding empowers us to reject the lies and distortions that the enemy tries to impose on us. By meditating on Scripture and seeking God's truth, we can align our vision with His and live out our new identity in Christ with confidence and purpose.
Isaiah 43:1 (ESV): "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.'"
Reflection: What are some specific lies or distortions about yourself that you need to reject today? How can you replace them with the truth of who God says you are?
Day 2: Transformation Through Christ
Ephesians 2:12-13 highlights our transition from being far from God to being brought near through the blood of Christ. This transformation is not just a change in status but a profound shift in our identity and relationship with God. [13:22]
Before knowing Christ, we were distant from God, living lives that were disconnected from His love and purpose. Ephesians 2:12-13 reminds us of this separation and the incredible transformation that occurs when we are brought near to God through the blood of Christ. This transformation is not merely a change in our status but a complete renewal of our identity and relationship with God.
In Christ, we are no longer defined by our past or our sins. Instead, we are given a new identity as children of God, loved and accepted by Him. This profound shift changes how we see ourselves and how we relate to God. It is a reminder that our worth and identity are found in Christ alone, and nothing can separate us from His love.
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: How has your identity and relationship with God changed since you came to know Christ? What steps can you take to embrace this new identity more fully in your daily life?
Day 3: Right Standing With God
Romans 8 emphasizes that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Our right standing with God is a gift, not something we earn. This gift makes us clean and righteous, allowing us to live free from the enemy's accusations. [16:41]
One of the most liberating truths of the Christian faith is that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8 assures us that our right standing with God is not based on our efforts or merits but is a gift from God. This gift of righteousness makes us clean and holy in God's sight, freeing us from the accusations and guilt that the enemy tries to impose on us.
Living in this truth means embracing the freedom that comes from knowing we are fully accepted and loved by God. It allows us to walk confidently in our faith, knowing that our sins have been forgiven and we are no longer under condemnation. This freedom empowers us to live out our faith boldly and to share the message of God's grace with others.
Colossians 1:21-22 (ESV): "And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you still feel condemned or guilty? How can you remind yourself of the truth that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus?
Day 4: Universal Application of Righteousness
Romans 3:22 teaches that our righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, applicable to everyone who believes. This universal application means that no matter our background, we are made right with God through faith. [17:43]
The message of the gospel is inclusive and universal. Romans 3:22 emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ and is available to everyone who believes, regardless of their background or past. This universal application of righteousness means that no one is excluded from God's grace and love.
This truth is a powerful reminder that our worth and acceptance before God are not based on our achievements or heritage but on our faith in Jesus Christ. It breaks down barriers and unites us as one body in Christ, where all are equal and loved by God. Embracing this truth helps us to see others through God's eyes and to extend His love and grace to everyone we encounter.
Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: How can you embrace the truth that God's righteousness is available to everyone, regardless of their background? How can this perspective change the way you interact with others?
Day 5: Embracing Our New Identity
Titus 3:3-7 shows that we were once foolish and disobedient, but through God's mercy, we are saved, cleansed, and given new life through the Holy Spirit. Embracing this new identity requires mental discipline and a commitment to meditating on and memorizing Scripture. [25:42]
Titus 3:3-7 paints a vivid picture of our transformation through God's mercy. We were once foolish, disobedient, and enslaved by various passions and pleasures. However, through God's kindness and love, we are saved, not because of our righteous deeds, but because of His mercy. This salvation involves a complete renewal and rebirth through the Holy Spirit, giving us a new identity in Christ.
Embracing this new identity requires intentional effort and mental discipline. It involves meditating on and memorizing Scripture to reinforce the truth of who we are in Christ. By doing so, we can combat the lies and distortions of the enemy and live out our new identity with confidence and purpose. This daily practice helps us to stay grounded in God's truth and to walk in the power and freedom of our new life in Christ.
Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV): "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to embrace your new identity in Christ? How can you incorporate the practice of meditating on and memorizing Scripture into your daily routine?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When we don't see ourselves as God sees us, then we are looking at some form of distortion. Does that make sense? You ever been to a carnival or one of the fun houses with all the warped mirrors? Right? And some of them make you look like a bubble or make you real tall and thin or real short and wide." [09:08] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You wake up and look in the mirror. Good morning, beautiful. You are forgiven. You are redeemed. You are chosen. You are equipped. You might get it. It's his answer. He's starting to pick it up in the morning. I'm not sure if she does it seriously or if she kind of makes fun of it. But she's beginning to do it." [13:55] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for who? Everyone who believes. No matter who we are. No matter you are Greek or Jew or Gentile or alien or rich or poor or four-legged or two. It doesn't matter who you are. You have believed in Jesus Christ and you have been given right standing with him." [17:43] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Mercy is he withholds what we deserve. Punishment of sin. Condemnation. Right? But he gives grace. What is grace? Gives us abundantly that which we do not deserve. Grace. Eternal life. Jesus Christ. Holiness. Friends." [33:06] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The enemy only has the power and the influence that we allow him to have. If we focus on who God says that we are, if we are seeing ourselves as God sees us, we can walk in holiness. Good morning, holy ones. I appreciate you. I'm glad you're here this morning. Because that's exactly the truth." [26:52] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When the enemy says he doesn't want you, poke him in the eye with this verse. Nope. Good morning, beautiful. Jesus draws me near this morning. I'm still trying to get you to do that. You wake up and look in the mirror. Good morning, beautiful. You are forgiven. You are redeemed. You are chosen. You are equipped." [13:22] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When presented with the truth of Scripture, it comes it's true and I need to believe it, it's true and I'm rejecting it. See, it doesn't really matter what you do with it, it's still true. But if you reject it, then you're not getting the benefit of that. You're not walking in the strength of that. You're not feeling the power of that. You're not invoking the power of the Holy Spirit in that." [20:10] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If we don't reinforce what the Scripture is telling us, then the world is going to reinforce what it wants us to believe. It's a mental thing. Are you feeding your mind the truth of Scripture?" [24:03] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When we get a proper perspective of how God sees us, when we get rid of the distortions of our old life, when we start to believe, then we are empowered by the truth of who God says we are. We don't have to deal with the enemy anymore as much. Why? Because He knows we can't unless we allow Him." [26:22] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "What does God see? That you are united with him. What does God see? He sees that you brought you near to him. You have been called. You have been chosen. You are his friend. What does God see? That you are made right with him all legal standing. says you have been cleansed. You are made holy. And your sins are washed away." [31:28] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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