Identity in Christ

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Our identity seems more often than not to be tied to race, gender, profession, geography, sports teams and politics these days. Everyone wants to be associated with those that are like them or we want to be like. It is easy to get drawn into that mindset.

But as a Christian, our identity is in Christ.

Matthew 10:24-25 (NASB)
24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master.
25 “It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, and the slave like his master.

I think I’m focused on my identity in Christ, but then I catch myself thinking and saying things that prove otherwise. However, spending time on spiritual disciplines takes us away from those false identities and allows us to adjust our identity to only Christ. It allows us to live in the world and enjoy God’s creation without being of the world.

Have you come up with your list of spiritual disciplines? It takes some thought because they are not detailed in scriptures as spiritual disciplines. Instead they are attributes modeled by Jesus in the way He lived and by the things He taught. Bible scholars don’t always agree on the definitive list, but there is always a common group that all agree upon. Here is a list from author Don Whitney in his book on “Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life.”

Bible Intake
Prayer
Worship
Evangelism
Service
Stewardship
Fasting
Silence/Solitude
Journaling
Learning

Wow, it is easy to look at this list and get overwhelmed. Yet when you consider how much time we spend in life focusing on false identities, we realize that if we are to become disciples, we are going to need to change our priorities.

If you want to change your priorities towards becoming a disciple, join us on Tuesday nights as we explore getting to know Jesus through prayer.

Always praying for the glory of God,

2 thoughts on “Identity in Christ”

  1. Ha! I figured out how to leave a comment!
    I like this topic. I’ve been thinking much about it with all the hullabaloo going on in the political arena with identity politics. It’s almost attractive to me to think that I could identify with a group that offers support, inclusion, and a mutual enemy to fight against. Now that society sees no sin and no absolute right it must be a matter of education and environment… ie… the phrase “check your privilege.” In the youth, Kevin is taking them/us through Romans (I say us because it’s seminary level awesomeness). In Romans 11 Paul talks about how we are all the same under Christ.. Sarah pointed this out btw.
    I have decided that I want to identify with Christ.. not as a female, not as southern, not as white, and not as a Clemson fan. If I am going to fight for an identity in this world, all other identities will be subservient to that of Christ follower. How relaxing to plant my feet on Jesus in the shifting viewpoints of he world. He definitely uses my place in society, but it no longer defines me… I am other… just like my savior.

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