Transformed in Christ: Embracing Our New Identity
Summary
In Romans 8, we discover the profound transformation that takes place when a person is in Christ. This change is not just about acquiring new things or improving our outward appearance, but about becoming a completely new creation from the inside out. The world spends vast amounts of time and resources trying to change the outside, but God promises a change that is deeper, more lasting, and ultimately more satisfying—a new you, shaped by the Holy Spirit.
This transformation brings us into a new relationship with God. Before Christ, our relationship with God was distant, marked by separation because of sin. But now, through faith in Jesus, we are adopted into God’s family. We are not merely creatures of God, but sons and daughters, able to call Him “Abba, Father.” This adoption is not a second-class status; in the Roman world, adopted children had full rights and privileges, equal to those born into the family. God chose us deliberately, with love and purpose, to be His own.
With this new relationship comes a new motivation. The Holy Spirit now leads us, not by force or compulsion, but as a gentle guide. Being led by the Spirit is not about mystical feelings or subjective impressions, but about a practical, daily surrender to God’s will. It means putting to death the old ways of the flesh and choosing to follow the Spirit’s direction, seeking to do what pleases God.
There is also a new validation. The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children, not through mystical whispers, but through the fruit He produces in our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and more. These changes, though not perfect, are evidence of our adoption and give us assurance that we truly belong to God.
Finally, we are given a new compensation. As heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, we are promised a future glory that far outweighs any suffering we experience now. Our present trials are temporary and cannot compare to the eternal inheritance awaiting us. God’s heart is not to ruin our lives, but to bless us beyond measure, if only we will stop running and receive His gift.
Key Takeaways
- Adoption into God’s family is a deliberate act of love and grace. Before Christ, our relationship with God was marked by distance and judgment, but through faith, we are brought near as sons and daughters. This new status is not earned, but given, and it means we are fully accepted and cherished by God, able to call Him “Abba, Father.” [13:29]
- Being led by the Holy Spirit is not about chasing mystical experiences or relying on fleeting feelings. Instead, it is a practical, daily surrender to God’s will, allowing Him to guide our decisions and actions. True spiritual leadership is gentle and persuasive, never forceful, and requires our willingness to follow. [20:46]
- The Holy Spirit validates our adoption by producing real, observable change in our character. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, and more—are the evidence that we belong to God. This transformation is not about perfection, but about genuine growth and assurance that God is at work within us. [30:20]
- Suffering is not a sign of God’s absence or displeasure, but often an indicator that we are aligned with Christ. The present hardships we endure are temporary and cannot compare to the glory that awaits us as heirs of God. Keeping an eternal perspective helps us endure trials with hope and even joy, knowing that suffering and glory are inseparable in the Christian life. [39:07]
- God’s heart is to bless, not to burden. Many resist God’s invitation out of fear that He will ruin their lives, but the truth is that He offers forgiveness, meaning, and an eternal inheritance. Like the man who ran from his inheritance, we must stop running and receive the gift God freely offers, trusting that His plans for us are good. [42:59]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:30] - The Four Sons and Their Gifts
[04:07] - The Promise of a New You
[05:42] - Outward vs. Inward Change
[06:51] - Four Experiences of the Child of God
[07:39] - A New Relationship with God
[09:34] - The Reality of Separation and Sin
[11:15] - Who Are God’s Children?
[13:29] - The Meaning of Adoption
[15:11] - God’s Choice and Election
[17:21] - Calling God “Abba, Father”
[18:55] - The Intimacy of Prayer
[19:58] - The Holy Spirit as Our Helper
[24:09] - What It Means to Be Led by the Spirit
[25:09] - The Spirit’s Validation and Assurance
[28:45] - The Fruit of the Spirit
[34:34] - Our New Compensation: Heirs with Christ
[39:07] - Suffering and Glory
[42:59] - The Inheritance We Must Receive
[44:03] - Prayer and Invitation to Respond
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Romans 8 – A New You in Christ
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### Bible Reading
- Romans 8:12-18
- Galatians 5:16-25
- John 1:12-13
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### Observation Questions
1. In Romans 8:15, what does Paul say we have received instead of a spirit of bondage or fear? What does this allow us to call God? ([07:39])
2. According to Galatians 5:22-23, what are some of the “fruit of the Spirit” that should be evident in a believer’s life? ([30:20])
3. In Romans 8:17-18, what does Paul say about the relationship between suffering and future glory for God’s children? ([34:34])
4. According to John 1:12-13, what is the requirement for someone to become a child of God? ([12:08])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon explains that adoption in the Roman world meant full rights and privileges for the adopted child. How does this understanding deepen the meaning of being called “children of God” in Romans 8? ([13:29])
2. The pastor said being led by the Spirit is not about mystical feelings but about daily surrender and practical choices. What does it look like in real life to be “led by the Spirit” rather than by our own desires? ([24:09])
3. The Holy Spirit “bears witness” with our spirit that we are God’s children, not by mystical whispers but by producing fruit in our lives. How does this practical evidence give assurance of salvation? ([30:20])
4. The sermon mentions that suffering is not a sign of God’s absence but can be an indicator that we are aligned with Christ. How does this perspective change the way we view hardships? ([39:07])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon said that before Christ, our relationship with God was distant, but now we are adopted as sons and daughters. Do you personally struggle to see God as a loving Father? What might help you grow in this area? ([13:29])
2. The pastor described being “led by the Spirit” as a daily, practical surrender to God’s will. Is there an area of your life where you are resisting the Spirit’s leading? What would it look like to surrender that area this week? ([24:09])
3. The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God’s work in us. Choose one aspect of the fruit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control) that you find challenging. What is one specific step you can take to grow in that area this month? ([30:20])
4. The sermon shared a story about someone running from an inheritance out of fear and misunderstanding. Are there ways you might be “running” from God’s blessings or calling in your life? What would it look like to stop running and receive what God wants to give you? ([42:59])
5. When you face suffering or hardship, do you tend to see it as a sign that God is displeased with you? How can you remind yourself that suffering and glory are connected in the Christian life? ([39:07])
6. The pastor said God’s heart is to bless, not to burden. Is there a fear or misconception about God’s intentions that you need to let go of? How can you replace it with truth from Scripture? ([42:59])
7. The sermon emphasized that our new identity and inheritance are gifts, not earned. How does this truth affect the way you approach God in prayer and daily life? ([13:29])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Thank God for adopting us as His children, for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and for the hope of future glory. Ask for help to surrender daily, to grow in the fruit of the Spirit, and to trust God’s heart and promises.
Devotional
Day 1: Adoption into God’s Family: A New Relationship
Through faith in Christ, we are not merely improved versions of ourselves but are adopted into God’s family as His beloved sons and daughters. This adoption is not a distant or formal arrangement; it is an intimate relationship where we are invited to call God “Abba, Father”—a term of closeness and affection. Before Christ, our relationship with God was marked by distance and separation due to sin, but now, by His grace, we are brought near, chosen, and cherished. This new identity means we are no longer defined by our past or by our failures, but by the love and acceptance of our Heavenly Father, who picked us to be His own before the foundation of the world. [13:29]
Romans 8:14-17 (ESV)
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
Reflection: In what ways do you still relate to God as a distant authority rather than as your loving Father? How might embracing your adoption change the way you approach Him in prayer today?
Day 2: Led by the Spirit: A New Motivation
Being a child of God means we are no longer driven by the desires of the flesh or by self-centered ambitions, but are led by the Holy Spirit who gently guides us into God’s will. The Spirit does not force or coerce; He leads like a wise conductor, inviting us to follow His cues and surrender control. This new motivation is not about chasing mystical feelings but about a practical, daily willingness to do what God wants, even when it means putting to death old habits and desires. True spiritual growth comes as we actively seek the Spirit’s leading, relinquishing our own agendas to follow where He guides. [20:46]
Romans 8:13-14 (ESV)
For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you sense the Spirit prompting you to surrender control? How can you intentionally follow His leading today?
Day 3: The Spirit’s Assurance: A New Validation
The Holy Spirit not only leads us but also assures us of our place in God’s family by producing His fruit in our lives. Just as witnesses validated Roman adoptions, the Spirit validates our adoption by transforming our character—growing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and more within us. This inner change is not about perfection but about genuine growth that both we and others can see. The evidence of the Spirit’s work gives us confidence that we truly belong to God, even when doubts arise, and reminds us that our new identity is marked by the fruit He cultivates in us. [30:20]
Galatians 5:22-25 (ESV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.
Reflection: Which fruit of the Spirit do you see growing in your life, and which one do you long to see more of? What is one practical way you can nurture that fruit today?
Day 4: Suffering and Glory: A New Compensation
As God’s children and co-heirs with Christ, we are promised a future glory that far outweighs any suffering we experience now. Though trials and hardships are part of this present life, they are not signs of God’s absence but reminders that we are aligned with Christ, sharing in both His sufferings and His coming glory. The hope of resurrection and eternal inheritance gives us strength to endure, knowing that every pain and groan is temporary and will one day be eclipsed by the incomparable joy and transformation God has prepared for us. [37:22]
Romans 8:17-18 (ESV)
And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
Reflection: How does the promise of future glory change your perspective on a current struggle or hardship? What would it look like to trust God with your suffering today?
Day 5: Receiving the Gift: Stop Running and Start Receiving
God’s heart is not to ruin your life but to rescue and bless you with forgiveness, meaning, and an eternal inheritance. Like the man who ran from the news of his inheritance, we can sometimes resist God’s offer out of fear or misunderstanding. Yet, the gift of adoption, new life, and future glory is only received when we stop running and open our hearts to Him. God’s invitation is for you to believe, to receive, and to let Him lead you into the fullness of life He desires for you—one marked by love, purpose, and hope. [42:59]
John 1:12-13 (ESV)
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
Reflection: Is there any way you have been resisting God’s invitation to receive His love or follow His leading? What step can you take today to stop running and start receiving His gift?
Quotes
Getting new things is usually seen as a welcome gesture, be it a new car or house or Dolby Sound System or a Starbucks cup. Getting a new item is always wonderful, but imagine getting a whole new you, a changed you. Change from the inside out, a change so profound that not only do you notice the change, but those who know you well also notice the change. [00:03:42]
That's exactly what the Bible promises. When it says, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away. Behold, all things become new, brand new you. [00:04:18]
You're not only going to get a new face, you're going to get a whole new body in the resurrection. You might be thinking, I'm good with my face now. Well, just wait. One day that will be such good news to you. [00:05:56]
Until then, we live in the moment of 2 Corinthians 4, which says our outward man is perishing, but our inward man is being renewed day by day. [00:06:24]
So, the new you, the new you changed from the inside out is what the Holy Spirit produces in the life of the believer. Every believer to some extent. [00:06:34]
Before you were saved, your relationship with God was not intimate, it was not close, it was detached, it was distant. You could simply look at your relationship, relationship, B .C., before Christ, as there was God and there was human. God and human, not just human, but a fallen human. [00:09:14]
But things are different now. That was then, this is now. Now the relationship you have isn't God and human, it's father and child of God, father and daughter of God, son of God, a whole new relation. You are sons and daughters of the living God. That's how he sees you. [00:10:36]
In a redemptive sense, it's a very narrow category, and that is those who believe in him. Now the word Paul uses for this is adoption. It shows up in verse 15. We have received the spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, Abba, Father. [00:13:15]
So what Paul wants us to know by him using the word adoption is that God chose you to be in his family. God picked you to be in his family. [00:15:26]
She told me it's when a child grows in your heart instead of your tummy. What a beautiful and, frankly, theologically correct description of biblical adoption. You see, God had you growing in his heart for years. [00:16:04]
He chose us in him before the foundation of the world, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will. That's the doctrine of election. you know, you know, you know, God picked you. God chose you. God wanted you to be part of his family. [00:16:28]
When God adopts you, the relationship changes, and you are now allowed to call him Abba, Father. That's an Aramaic term, Abba, as well as a Hebrew term. It means Daddy. It's an intimate term. It's a close term. It's a term of endearment. [00:17:43]
So that's how Jesus taught us to pray, right? He said, when you pray, say, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. That really probably came as a shock to the people of the first century because most of the Jews did not refer to God as their father. [00:18:13]
Do you know that you have, like, the world's best helper living in you? I hope you're thinking, that's good because I need all the help I can get, because we all do. You have the best helper. He is called the Holy Spirit. [00:19:58]
He is said to lead a person. I love the language of him leading. A shepherd doesn't beat his sheep or force his sheep. He leads his sheep. Even Jesus, it said, was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where he was tempted of the devil for forty days. [00:20:26]
The Holy Spirit is a gentleman. He leads. He doesn't drive. He doesn't force. He doesn't bully. He leads. Some people speak of being driven. I'm a driven person. I hope you're a led person. I'm driven. I'm Spirit -driven. Or I'm purpose -driven. The Christian should be Spirit -led. [00:20:47]
Being led by the Holy Spirit means not letting your bodily appetites control you any longer. That's what being led means. It's not a mystical, I feel led. It's a very practical, specific way of saying God leads you into his will so that you have a new motivation. [00:24:36]
The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God. Now what does that mean? Well, let's go back to the Roman adoption. In antiquity, when the Romans would adopt a son or daughter into the family, it was a formal ceremony. There were witnesses that came to the formal ceremony. [00:25:39]
How does the Holy Spirit prove that we are children of God, that we are adopted by God? It's called the fruit of the Spirit. By the fruit of the Spirit. By what the Holy Spirit Spirit produces in our lives. [00:28:29]
Those character traits that he mentions here are produced in our lives by the Holy Spirit to some degree. And when they are, they provide for us assurance. They are benchmarks to us that we are indeed adopted children of God. Make sense? [00:30:53]
Here's God's way of validating the reality of the commitment. The Holy Spirit comes into you and into me, into us, starts working, cleaning up, producing love, joy, peace, long -suffering. All of these character traits, that's him bearing witness that it's valid by working these changes out. [00:34:04]
We and others who look at us will know that. It gives us assurance. We're not talking about perfection. We're talking about growth, simple growth of the life of the Spirit inside of us. [00:34:34]
What that means is everything Jesus Christ received by divine right, we receive by divine grace. Even and including future glory. glory. So you really will get a new face, a new body. [00:35:42]
Though we suffer now on this earth, and please, dear child of God, listen, especially if you're in a very dark moment, you're going through a very desperate time in your life, you think the world is crashing down on you in your suffering, though you suffer now on this earth, one day that will be eclipsed by incomparable glory. [00:36:01]
Suffering and glory belong together because these two words characterize the two ages of the believer. The present age, suffer. The future age, glory. So Paul is giving us a cosmic perspective of now versus then. [00:36:42]
We have no right to expect better treatment from this world than Jesus got from this world. If you are indeed an adopted son or daughter of the living God, you align yourself with him and you follow him and you love him, you should see suffering for him as an honor. [00:39:39]
Only the Christian can endure suffering knowing there's purpose for it and that it's leading somewhere. So all of these experiences are because God adopted you, meaning he chose you. You were growing in his heart for years. [00:40:41]
God desires the very best for you, not the worst for you, the very best. That's his heart. Obviously by these truths. He doesn't want to ruin your life. He wants to rescue your life. [00:41:36]
God offers an inheritance, forgiveness from the past, meaning in the present, glory in the future, but you have to stop running and start receiving. A gift is only as good as your ability and willingness to receive it. God is not out to bust you. He's out to bless you. [00:43:31]
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