Identity
In a world where often our identities are formed by circumstances, labels, and the opinions of others, the search to find out who we really are can seem to be an elusive one. For those following in Jesus' footsteps, however, this search for identity takes on a deeper, transforming dimension. Our identity is not just about self-discovery; rather, it is about who God says we are, embracing it fully, and living it out.
A New Identity in Christ
When one decides to follow Jesus, something inside shifts. As it is written in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here! " It's not a fresh start; it's a new identity. As believers, we are no longer defined by our past, our mistakes, or what others say about us.
We become children of God, stepping into an identity based upon His love, grace, and purpose for us.
Paul says it so beautifully in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." We no longer identify with our old selves, which may have had attached to them certain labels and limitations. We have found freedom in Christ to live as we were truly created to be children of light, loved, and chosen by God.
Putting Away the Falsehoods That Define Us
The story of the eagle raised with chickens says a lot about how circumstances and environment can really distort our sense of identity. Just like that eagle who thought he was a chicken, many people struggle through life under the labels placed upon them by family members, friends, or even society itself. Usually, these labels restrict us and make us think we are something less than what God intended.
But the truth is, we are not defined by our environments, our pasts, or our perceived failures.
But when we look at God's Word, we see a different picture: we are His creation, fearfully and wonderfully made. We have to come out of these "chicken coops" of false identity and spread our wings to the eagle-like life for which we were meant—boldly with wings spread wide, lifted on the strength of who He says we are.
Living by God's Word, Not the World's Labels
Identity theft is a very real problem in our digital age, but there has been another kind of identity theft going on since the dawn of humanity. In Genesis, the enemy used lies to rob Adam and Eve of their identity and relationship with God. Today, he uses similar tactics to keep us from realizing our true worth and purpose.
But Jesus comes through the cross, restoring that which was lost and giving us an unconquerable identity as children of God.
Colossians 2:15 says he
“…disarmed the powers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross”
That is why the cross is the ultimate proof of our identity. It says we are loved, accepted, forgiven, and empowered to live in freedom. To embrace this identity means more than just knowing it in our head; it means allowing it to shape how we live each day—no longer defined by what we do, what we have, or what others say, but by whom God says we are.
Living Out Our True Identity
The reality of living in the light of our identity in Christ means claiming these truths every day. Jesus said in John 8:32, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." As we allow God's truth to define us, we are set free from those lies that have held us captive.
So, who does God say you are? Well, Ephesians 1 says we are:
Blessed
Loved
Chosen
Adopted
Forgiven
Empower
Redeemed
Marked as His own
When we accept and proclaim these truths over our lives, we come in line with God's purpose and plan. We walk into the freedom of living as He intended, no longer bound by the opinions of others but filled with confidence in who we are in Him.
An Invitation to True Identity
For those who have yet to experience this freedom in Christ, the invitation is wide open. You can come to Jesus, get a new life, and find the identity only He can give. He brings a love that welcomes, forgives, and transforms. If you're ready to take this step, reach out, call on His name, and start walking in your true identity.
A Final Warning
Let's live by what God's Word says about us and not what the world says. Confess over yourself, "I am not what I do. I am not what I have. I am not what people say about me. I am who He says I am." Not only does this truth set us free, but it also empowers us to live fully as a child of God—loved, chosen, and set apart for His purpose.
So, to every “eagle” living among chickens:
Spread your wings, embrace your true identity, and soar.
Delivered by Pastor Michael Williams on October 27, 2024, at the City Church Swansea Sunday Service.