Knowing your identity in Christ – Part 2

Identity is defined as “the individual characteristics by which a thing or person is recognised or known.”Self-identity in Christ is all about knowing who we are and exacting our authority and influence as sons of God over situations of life.

What Christ Has Done
Our identity is based on what Christ has done for us. The basis of our identity is our relationship with Christ. We are who we are because of Christ. Aside from Him, we are nothing. He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world and made us be his sons and heirs in Him. We are partakers of the fullness of blessings that is in Him (John 1:16).

Our Authority In Christ
Our identity is based on our authority in Christ. As sons, we have been given awesome authority in Christ for the purpose of advancing the kingdom. A son who knows the father’s authority is bold to challenge the enemy who comes to the house to kill, steal or destroy. Unfortunately, on many occasions, we behave as men who don’t know their authority.

Relationship With Christ
Our identity is based on our relationships with Christ. We are the workmanship of God (Ephesians 2:10). That is to say, we are the product of God’s design. The New Living Translation puts it this way, “For we are God’s masterpieces. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” As sons, we have been freely given all things in Christ and nothing shall separate us from the love of God (Rom.8:32-36). Then, Romans 8:37 says, we are more than conquerors through Christ.

Ephesians 2:5-6, states that we have been elevated and made to sit with Christ in the heavenly places.

Scriptures
Several Scriptures describes what our identity is in Christ. I John 3:1,2 says, the Father has bestowed upon us sonship. Sons are heirs and sons have rights and authority. Sons also have responsibilities.

Jesus used three accurate metaphors to describe who we are. He declared that we are the salt of the earth, we are created to add flavour to the society wherever we are (Matt.5:13).

He also said that we are the light of the world. We are designed to shine and give light to others (Matt. 5:14).

Then, he said we are a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden. We are meant to illuminate and radiate light to all and sundry. We are meant to attract others to God (Matt.5:14).

Christlike Qualities
Our identity is based on our Christlikeness. We have the Spirit and nature of Christ. We have the love of Christ as our identity. The Bible says, “By this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one for another.’

Bold Declaration
We must boldly declare to the devil who we are in Christ and what our position and status are in the kingdom. Our self-identity is not just to be brandished about but used to exact Christ-like influence as salt and light of the earth. God has called us to be men of influence and impact.

We all have spheres of influence, those around us whom we can touch with our ministry of love, exemplary character, compassion, and care. The world beckons to those who are willing to show care and love. The world is full of promise makers but lacks in promise keepers. Many leaders make promises but run short of keeping their promises. We must be different.

Contact:pastoracukachi@gmail.com