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Identity is defined as "the collective aspect of the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognizable or known." If our identity is in Christ, we should display characteristics that are recognizable as belonging to Christ. The word "Christians" means "followers of Christ" and as the Apostle John points out, we should literally follow in His footsteps. "By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked" (1 John 2:5b-6).
Our identity in Christ is first and foremost one of newness. We are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Identity is defined as “the collective aspect of the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognizable or known,” so our new identity in Christ should be recognizable both to ourselves and to others. If we are “in Christ,” that should be evident, just as being “in the world” is equally evident. A further definition of identity is “the quality or condition of being the same as something else.” In the case of our identity in Christ, our lives should indicate that we are the same as Christ. The name “Christians” means literally “followers of Christ.”
In our new identity in Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin (Romans 6:6), but we are reconciled to God (Romans 5:10). This new identity completely changes our relationship with God and our families, just as it changes the way we see the world. Our new identity in Christ means we have the same relationship with God that Christ has because we are His children. God has adopted us as sons. We are able to call Him “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15–16). We are both joint heirs (Galatians 3:29) and friends (John 15:15) of Christ. And this relationship is even stronger than those we have with our earthly families (Matthew 10:35–37).
Instead of fearing God as judge, we have the great privilege of coming to Him as our Father. We can approach Him with confidence and ask of Him what we need (Hebrews 4:16). We can ask for His guidance and wisdom (James 1:5) and know that nothing will take us from Him (Romans 8:38–39). We also rest in His authority and respond to Him with trusting obedience, knowing that obedience is a key part of remaining close to Him (John 14:23).
We are no longer citizens of the world but apart from it (2 Corinthians 6:14—7:1).
We must understand that we are a part of a heavenly and God-ruled kingdom. Things of the earth should no longer draw us (Colossians 3:2).
We must not fear or over–emphasize suffering on earth or the trials we face (Colossians 1:24; 1 Peter 3:14; 4:12–14), nor should we place importance on things the world values (1 Timothy 6:9–11). Even our bodies and our actions reflect that our minds are no longer conformed to the world (Romans 12:1–2) but are now instruments of righteousness to God (Romans 6:13). And our new kingdom perspective means we understand that our enemy is not the people around us but the spiritual forces that endeavor to keep the people from knowing God (Ephesians 6:12).
What is my identity in Christ? Every Christian at point on this Christian journey should ask themselves this. Because, it seems basic, like we all should know what our identity in Christ is. Your faith will grow stronger as you focus on your identity in Christ. What this means is that you abandon any image of yourself that is not from God. You stop accepting what others have said about you, how others have labeled you, and how others have defined you.
The dictionary defines a masterpiece as “a person’s greatest work of art,” or a “consummate example of skill or excellence.” Now, when God’s Word describes you as His masterpiece, what comes into your mind? You are defined by God and God alone. He identifies you as his own (2 Corinthians 1:22).
This “identity issue” is an important part of living the abundant life. Jesus was able to face the incredible demands of his mission because he knew exactly who he was. He knew that he mattered to God, and that gave him confidence to move purposefully in faith. You are now identified with Christ and have the power of the Holy Spirit within you. You are God’s precious child, and he created you in a way that pleases him.
Your personal identity how you see yourself is often shaped by your early experiences in life. The Word says, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). But I had not yet taken hold of the “new creation reality.” Jesus had paid the price for my total deliverance, but I had no idea how to receive His gracious gift.
Saturate your mind with the truth of God’s Word. It’s filled with reminders of His unconditional love for you. He says you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). He says that nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:35). Don’t let the enemy steal your identity. You are God’s masterpiece.
Christ’s sacrifice for us made us holy, but that sanctification is exposed over time (Hebrews 10:10, 14). Sin robs us of our peace, but being in Christ means we have been saved from sin, and we no longer must live according to its whims (1 Corinthians 15:56-57; Romans 6:6-14). We will be happier, and more at peace, if we strive to walk as Jesus walked. Much of the writings of the New Testament are encouraging believers toward this goal. All of this is the ideal, the character of a mature follower of Christ. One of the greatest blessings about our identity in Christ is the grace we’re given in order to grow into the spiritual maturity that truly reflects our new identity (Philippians 1:6). Our lives in light of our identity in Christ are filled with a heavenly Father, a large, loving family, and the understanding that we are citizens of another kingdom and not of this earth.
How Our Identity in Christ Changes Our Lives:
Knowing our identity is in Christ is one thing but understanding how that practically changes the way we live is another. Here are a few ways that understanding our true identity in Christ can greatly impact the way we live our lives.
1. We no longer chase after the desires of our flesh but instead seek to bring God glory in all
areas of our life (1 John 2:15-17).
2. We no longer fear the future (Romans 8:14-15).
3. We have no need to judge or compare ourselves to others when we seek to please Christ alone, in whom our identity is hidden (Romans 14:5-8).
4. We should not be surprised when suffering comes, but we can be confident that it will produce
things of eternal value (Romans 8:16-17).
Personal identity is one of the most important things to understand about ourselves. Knowing who we are, what makes us tick, what makes us laugh, what gets on our nerves, what brings us true joy, those are essential things to name because that understanding affects everything else. Personal identity affects how we look at life, how we deal with conflicts, and even who we choose as friends. When you identify with Christ, God gives you a new identity.
There are external things that are a necessary a part of you, but they aren’t permanent. They may be facts about who you are today, but ten years from now, many of your responses would probably be different.
If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, you have a secret identity that you may not be aware of. Can you see yourself as the Heavenly Father does? Do you know how you are in Christ? Or have you lost sight of your purpose? Have you forgotten who lives within in you? Or, has authority and power over you?
Your identity in Christ doesn’t depend on physical characteristics, features or personalities. God has already defined you in His perfect Son, Jesus Christ. It’s no secret what we will end up chasing after meaningless earthly possessions and sinful experiences to “find ourselves,” to try to fit in, to try to be cool. To try and be someone we’re not. Your true identity hides somewhere much more precious than things and experiences. And that identity is eternal.
Not only is it important to understand your identity, but it’s important to actually live life like you know who you are. When’s the last time you've looked at yourself like you're God's special, chosen child? When’s the last time you have made a decision with the confidence that you've been set free in His love and grace?
Instead of SINNER, you are now called CHRISTIAN.
Instead of LOST, you are now called FOUND.
Instead of ENEMY, you are now called FRIEND.
Instead of UNRIGHTEOUS, you are now called RIGHTEOUS.
Instead of SICK, you are now called HEALED.
Instead of POOR, you are now called RICH.
Instead of UNHOLY, you are now called HOLY.
Instead of EVIL, you are now called GOOD.
Instead of VICTIM, you are now called VICTORIOUS.