Discovering Your Identity

We all mistakenly identify ourselves wrongly at times. We may put our value and hope in what we do, our title, or our stuff.
When it comes to the core issues of the faith and the things that matter the most, you have to figure out what you believe and why you got there. These verses in the early portion of the book of Ephesians are a literal gold-mine when it comes to the issue of helping us understand who we are. (Ephesians 1:1-2:10)
3 Actions to Discovering Your Identity in Christ
I. Be Honest about Your Past Condition
As you read these verses did you feel like you were hearing from another human? I don’t think so, this is like hearing from heaven. Some of the things that were said about our past weren’t easy to hear but it’s like going to the doctor – if there’s something wrong physically you don’t want to delay hearing the truth.
Who are you, or who were you, apart from Christ?
- Dead in your trespasses and sins (2:1)
- Walking according to the course of the world (2:2)
- Living by our own feelings and desires (2:3a)
- Children of wrath by nature (2:3b)
Application
- This should make us patient with others who fail
1 Timothy 1:15-16 “… that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.”
- Motivates us to forgive others quickly because we recognize the former depth of our need
A person who refuses to go through life with bitterness is someone who understands who they are.
- Keeps our eyes focused on the mission
II. Be Blown Away by Your Present Identity
In Christ our identity is fundamentally and forever changed. We are now…
- An adopted child
Ephesians 1:5-6 “He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to himself…”
This is a critical element of figuring out who you are. We too often define ourselves incorrectly. We say I’m overweight, I’m divorced, I’m old, I’m in debt. How about, I’m an adopted child of God and that’s something that can never be taken away from me?
- A forgiven rebel
- C.S. Lewis said, “Fallen man is not simply an imperfect creature who needs improvement: he is a rebel who must put down his arms.”
- An informed participant
- A joint heir
III. Be Encouraged by Your Future Hope
Ephesians 1:13-14 - In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.
We've seen 3 actions to help us understand our identity in Christ. But what are you doing about it? How are you living your life today that would make anyone know who you truly are?
It's only when you begin living out these purposes, shining your identity in Christ for all to see that you will ever gain true happiness, the kind of deep, lasting fulfillment the Bible speaks of.
You were created on purpose and for a great purpose but are you living that out?
Pastor Chris Williams
To learn more about Pastor Chris and his teaching, visit us on the web at fcfamily.org and make sure you subscribe to receive these biweekly encouragements in your inbox.
To learn more about Pastor Chris and his teaching, visit us on the web at fcfamily.org and make sure you subscribe to receive these biweekly encouragements in your inbox.
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