Understanding Our Identity in Christ for the New Year
Summary
As we step into the new year, it's a time to reflect on our identity, particularly our identity in Christ. This year, we are focusing on understanding what it truly means to say, "I am a Christian." In today's world, where identity is often redefined, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what being a Christian entails. Our identity in Christ should be the foundation of our lives, influencing our actions, decisions, and purpose.
We began by exploring the story of Nicodemus in John 3, who sought Jesus under the cover of night, grappling with his identity. Jesus' response to Nicodemus highlights the necessity of being "born again," a concept that initially confused Nicodemus but is central to our Christian identity. To say "I am a Christian" means to center our lives on Jesus Christ, who is our hope, salvation, and purpose.
Understanding our identity in Christ is urgent. In 2 Timothy 3:13, we are reminded of the increasing deception in the world, making it vital for us to know who we are in Christ. This knowledge equips us to navigate the false belief systems vying for our attention and allegiance. Moreover, Hebrews 12:1 warns us of the distractions and sins that can weigh us down, urging us to lay them aside and run our race with perseverance.
God never intended for us to journey alone. From the beginning, as seen in Genesis 2:18, God created us for community. The local church is a vital part of this community, where we can grow, serve, and hold each other accountable. Being part of a local church is integral to living out our Christian identity.
Finally, Jesus exemplified a clear understanding of His identity through His "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. These statements not only defined who He was but also His purpose. As followers of Christ, we are called to have the mind of Christ, allowing our identity in Him to shape our lives and actions.
Key Takeaways:
- Our identity in Christ is foundational and should influence every aspect of our lives. It is not just a label but a commitment to center our lives on Jesus, who is our hope and salvation. [30:03]
- Understanding our identity in Christ is urgent in a world filled with deception. We must be vigilant and grounded in our faith to navigate the false belief systems around us. [31:54]
- We are created for community, and the local church plays a crucial role in our spiritual growth and accountability. Being part of a church is essential to living out our Christian identity. [46:25]
- Jesus' "I am" statements in the Gospel of John provide a model for us to understand our identity and purpose. Just as Jesus knew who He was, we must also have a clear grasp of our identity in Him. [52:34]
- Our identity in Christ should lead to action. As we understand who we are in Him, it should motivate us to live out our faith, serve others, and fulfill the purpose God has for us. [01:09:35]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[08:02] - Importance of Communication
[10:04] - Men's Bible Study Plans
[23:58] - Identity in Christ
[25:51] - Defining "I am a Christian"
[27:59] - Nicodemus' Identity Crisis
[31:10] - Urgency of Knowing Our Identity
[33:45] - Distractions and Weights
[37:51] - Battling Natural Tendencies
[41:08] - Community and the Local Church
[45:12] - The Role of the Local Church
[52:34] - Jesus' "I am" Statements
[01:02:38] - Jesus as the Resurrection and Life
[01:05:52] - The Way, the Truth, and the Life
[01:09:35] - Living Out Our Identity in Christ
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- John 3:1-21
- 2 Timothy 3:13
- Hebrews 12:1
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Observation Questions:
1. What was Nicodemus' initial reaction to Jesus' teaching about being "born again," and why was he confused? [29:09]
2. According to 2 Timothy 3:13, what does the Bible say about the state of the world and the importance of knowing our identity in Christ? [31:10]
3. In Hebrews 12:1, what are believers encouraged to do in order to run their race with perseverance? [33:45]
4. How does the sermon describe the role of the local church in a believer's life? [46:25]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. Why might Nicodemus have been experiencing an identity crisis, and how does this relate to modern-day identity struggles? [27:59]
2. How does understanding our identity in Christ help us navigate the false belief systems mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:13? [31:54]
3. What are some examples of "weights" and "sins" that can hinder a believer's spiritual race, as mentioned in Hebrews 12:1? [33:45]
4. How does the concept of community, as seen in Genesis 2:18 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, support the idea that Christians are not meant to journey alone? [41:08]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own understanding of being "born again." How does this concept shape your daily life and decisions? [29:09]
2. In what ways can you actively guard against the deceptions of the world, as warned in 2 Timothy 3:13? What practical steps can you take to strengthen your identity in Christ? [31:54]
3. Identify a "weight" or "sin" in your life that may be hindering your spiritual growth. What specific actions can you take to lay it aside and run your race with perseverance? [33:45]
4. How can you become more involved in your local church community to enhance your spiritual growth and accountability? What steps will you take this week to engage more deeply with your church? [46:25]
5. Consider the "I am" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of John. Which statement resonates most with you, and how can it influence your understanding of your identity and purpose in Christ? [52:34]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt isolated in your faith journey. How can you seek out community and support to prevent this from happening again? [41:08]
7. How can you ensure that your identity as a Christian is not just a label but a commitment that influences every aspect of your life? What changes might you need to make to align your actions with your identity in Christ? [30:03]
Devotional
Day 1: Our Identity in Christ as Our Foundation
Our identity in Christ is not merely a label we wear but the very foundation upon which we build our lives. It is a commitment to center our lives on Jesus, who is our hope and salvation. This identity should influence every aspect of our lives, from our actions and decisions to our purpose and direction. In a world where identity is often redefined, understanding what it truly means to say, "I am a Christian," is crucial. This understanding helps us navigate life with clarity and purpose, ensuring that our lives reflect the values and teachings of Christ. [30:03]
Ephesians 2:19-20 (ESV): "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: In what ways can you ensure that your identity in Christ is the foundation of your daily decisions and actions this week?
Day 2: Urgency in Understanding Our Identity
In a world filled with deception and false belief systems, understanding our identity in Christ is urgent. We must be vigilant and grounded in our faith to navigate the myriad of voices vying for our attention and allegiance. This knowledge equips us to discern truth from falsehood and to stand firm in our beliefs. As we grow in our understanding of who we are in Christ, we become better equipped to resist the distractions and sins that can weigh us down, allowing us to run our race with perseverance. [31:54]
Colossians 2:8 (ESV): "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."
Reflection: What are some deceptive beliefs or distractions you face, and how can you actively ground yourself in your identity in Christ to overcome them?
Day 3: Created for Community
God never intended for us to journey through life alone. From the beginning, He created us for community, as seen in Genesis 2:18. The local church plays a crucial role in this community, providing a space for spiritual growth, service, and accountability. Being part of a local church is essential to living out our Christian identity, as it offers support and encouragement in our walk with Christ. Through the church, we can grow in our faith, serve others, and hold each other accountable, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ. [46:25]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you actively engage with your local church community this week to foster spiritual growth and accountability?
Day 4: Jesus' "I am" Statements as a Model
Jesus exemplified a clear understanding of His identity through His "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. These statements not only defined who He was but also His purpose. As followers of Christ, we are called to have the mind of Christ, allowing our identity in Him to shape our lives and actions. By understanding who Jesus is, we gain insight into our own identity and purpose, enabling us to live lives that reflect His love and truth. [52:34]
John 8:12 (ESV): "Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"
Reflection: Reflect on one of Jesus' "I am" statements. How does it inspire you to understand and live out your identity in Christ?
Day 5: Our Identity Leading to Action
Our identity in Christ should lead to action. As we understand who we are in Him, it should motivate us to live out our faith, serve others, and fulfill the purpose God has for us. This identity is not passive but active, calling us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. By living out our identity in Christ, we become a testament to His love and grace, impacting the lives of those around us and advancing His kingdom on earth. [01:09:35]
James 2:17 (ESV): "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: Identify one specific action you can take this week to live out your identity in Christ and serve others in your community.
Quotes
Sure, here are 20 spiritually significant quotes from the sermon transcript:
"Now, as we looked at this passage of Scripture, we were looking at a man by the name of Nicodemus. And I believe in this passage of Scripture, have you ever heard someone say they're having an identity crisis? That seems to be a common phrase today. You know, I'm having an identity crisis. I don't know if I'm male or female. You don't. That should be an easy one, all right? You know, that should be obvious, okay? I'm having an identity crisis. I don't know. Fill in the blank. Whatever it might be." [00:27:06]
"In our culture, there are many false belief systems that are vying for your heart and your mind. They're vying for your identity, for who you are. The conflict can be both confusing and really overwhelming. And right now, perhaps more than any time in history, we need to understand the urgency of the moment of the day and age in which we live. The opportunities we have before us are unlike any other time in human history." [00:31:14]
"Wherefore, seeing we are also encompassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin with just so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Do you understand one of the hard things, not just about just the urgency of knowing our identity, but do you understand there are distractions that will divide you and conquer you as you seek to live for Christ?" [00:33:02]
"In our battle, in our race of life, and in discovering our identity, not just the urgency of it, but there are things that are actively trying to discourage you. They're actively trying to divide you, to conquer you, and that is, there's weights of life. By the way, not all weights are sin. Some things happen in life that just weigh you down, don't they? But it says, weights and what? And sin, which does so easily beset us." [00:36:27]
"Genesis chapter 2 and verse 18, the Bible says, And the Lord God said, it is not good that man should be alone. I will make and help meet for him. Do you understand? From the very beginning of time, God never intended mankind to do life alone. All throughout creation, God said, and it was good, and it was good, and it was good, and it was good, and it was good, and it was very good. The very first time God said, this is not good, is right here." [00:41:28]
"Ecclesiastes chapter four. We look at verses nine to 12. The Bible says, two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow, but woe to him that is alone when he falleth. For he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat. But how can one be warm alone? And if one prevailed against him, two shall withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken." [00:43:12]
"Local churches striving for unity, teaching the gospel, serving others in their community. Hey, being by yourself and not being involved in a local church is foreign to the concept of biblical Christianity. God gave us a local church to carry out his mission. It's his plan. It's his purpose. Hey, when Christians become committed members of a local church, the church becomes healthy. When the church becomes healthy, the community becomes healthy. When the community becomes healthy, the, the nation becomes healthy." [00:46:45]
"In other parts of the world, you understand millions of Christians will gather at risk of their lives to be identified with the local church. Many Christians do not have what you hold in your hand, a completed copy of the word of God. They have pages and they began to, you know, take those pages and they begin to memorize them. I read a story about a preacher who ended up being able to go to China and he was preaching at this, this secret house church." [00:48:36]
"if it doesn't then it is not following the biblical pattern or plan for your life well what's the other way that god helped us you know because have you ever noticed when you're around other christians it's a lot easier to act like a christian but when you're not around other christians what's it a lot easier to act like whatever you're around yes hey i'm i'm just testifying here i'm not talking i'm not talking about you i'm talking about me like all right and you'd probably say the same thing" [00:49:50]
"bible says let this mind be in you which is also in christ jesus who being in the form of god started not robbery to be equal with god but made himself of no reputation and took upon him the form of a servant was made in the likeness of men and being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross wherefore god hath also highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name that the name of jesus every knee should bow" [00:51:22]
"and jesus said unto them i am the bread of life he that cometh to me shall never hunger and he that believeth on me shall never thirst jesus do you know everybody who are you oh i know that i'm the bread of life i'm the bread of life yes he had provided them in this passage of scripture with physical nourishment physical bread but he was referring to providing them with these eternal spiritual physical food hey no one who accepts christ as their bread of life will ever be spiritually hungry again" [00:53:23]
"Then Jesus spake again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world. He that falleth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. Light is often like a metaphor, but it's often a picture. Here, Jesus says, you know what? I am the light of life. He says, you know what? I provide a way in the darkness that no one else can provide. I can help you see the path, which, by the way, we're going to find out another one. He says, I am the way, the truth, and the life." [00:54:24]
"Then said Jesus unto them, again, verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. I am the door of the sheep. Throughout Scripture, Jesus uses the illustration of a shepherd and his sheep. He describes himself as the one who watches over and protected his sheep. He always put his sheep before himself. When he said, I am the door. Now, if you know anything about a Bible sheepfold, it was kind of a wall that you would have, and there'd be an opening, and through that opening, you would lead the sheep in if you were the shepherd." [00:56:36]
"gate of the fold where the sheep are resting no one will get to them or take them away they'll be safe hey if you're in christ today and you've gone through the door no one's going to get you out of the fold they got to go through him right jesus who are you well take your bibles if you're still in chapter 10 drop down to verses 11 and verse 12 he'll answer this again he says i am the good shepherd the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep but he that is a hireling and not the shepherd" [00:58:31]
"jesus said unto her meaning martha i am the resurrection and the life he that believeth in me though he were dead yet shall he live and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die believest thou this this is mary and martha when lazarus their brother was dead when they sent for jesus three days ago when he was sick knowing that if he got there in time he could heal him and if you look at the bible the bible gives the indication that he knew this and he waited three days on purpose" [01:01:54]
"but what did jesus say jesus said you know what i am the resurrection and the life jesus conquered death think about that statement who can actually say that only jesus you say why because when he died he stayed in the grave three days and three nights but he got up and walked out how do we know he walked out he was seen by hundreds of people he ate food hundreds and hundreds of people saw him they verified it it's not made up hundreds of people stood there and watched him go on up into the sky" [01:03:33]
"jesus who are you jesus saith unto him i am the way the truth and the life no man cometh unto the father but by me hey those who follow christ are saved by grace through faith and those who truly put their faith in christ will bear fruit you Good works are not what saves us, but if we're truly placed our faith in Christ, we will do the works God's called us to do. There's a difference." [01:05:08]
"Jesus is kind of looking at this, and he's saying, you know what? There's only one way to salvation. You say, well, that's pretty exclusive. Yep, that's pretty much it. You say, well, isn't that narrow -minded? Well, I don't know about you, but if someone who died and rose from the grave and walked out of it said, I am the way, the truth, and the life, I think I'll believe him. The same guy said, I'm the resurrection of the life, and then resurrected and came back to life. I think I'll believe him." [01:06:02]
"How do you know that? Because someone said to Jesus, and he said, well, you know what? I am the resurrection and the life. He said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. If you're here today, and you don't know Christ as your Savior, I don't know what you're trusting. Can I tell you this? The only way you'll get there and can get there with complete assurance is through Jesus Christ. And lastly, John chapter 15, verses 1 and verse 2." [01:06:39]
"Have you ever planted something with the idea of getting a harvest? Don't you expect fruit? Now, we understand, you've got to do a few things. You probably have to water the thing. That's where I forget to water the thing. And you've got to feed it, and that's probably where I mess up to when I plant stuff. But Jesus is the true vine. He doesn't ever forget. And he says, if you're in him, if you're in the true vine, what will you do? You'll bear fruit. If you're not, husband will take it away." [01:08:08]
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