There are a few things that shape our ‘Identity’. Things like; ethnicity, experience, gender, language, culture, nationality, political views, morals, race, social class etc. Some of these aren things we chose (conscious decision) while others weren’t a choice. Religion is one of these things and as Christians we can easy figure out our Ideal Identity.
Christian; Follower of Christ. Therefore we should identify as Christ-like people.
We are also Children of God (John 1:12). We ought to obey the instructions of our Father and abide by His rules.
We are members of the body of Christ, working together for a greater good with each of us having a specific task (1 Corinthians 12:27).
We are citizens of Heaven (Philippians 3:20) yet ambassadors of Christ here on earth (2 Corinthians 5:20). We know there is more to this life on earth and we’ve been given authority over the things of this of this world.
Most importantly we are Chosen people (1 Peter 2:9). We weren’t created by mistake, God knew us and knew our purpose before we were formed. There is a reason for our existing.
Being a Christian means having an identity that comes with responsibilities. If we claim we are Children if God, then we ought to act like it.
For us to enter the Holy Kingdom, we must at least be eligible by following it’s rules.
- Faith and Trust in God: God expects us to have faith in Him and trust in His character, promises, and guidance. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Trusting God means relying on Him in every aspect of our lives, even when circumstances are challenging.
- Obedience to His Commands: As His children, we are called to obey God’s commandments. Jesus emphasized the importance of obedience in John 14:15, saying, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Obedience is not about legalism but about responding to God’s love by living according to His will.
- Holiness and Righteousness: God expects us to live holy and righteous lives, reflecting His character (we are His ambassadors on earth) 1 Peter 1:15-16 instructs, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” This means pursuing a life that is set apart from sin and aligned with God’s standards.
- Love for God and Others: The greatest commandments, according to Jesus, are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). God expects us to prioritize love in all our relationships—love for Him above all and selfless love for others.
- Spiritual Growth and Maturity: God desires that we grow in our faith and become more like Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 encourages us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This involves cultivating spiritual disciplines like prayer, reading Scripture, and participating in a faith community.
- Witnessing and Evangelism: As His children, God expects us to share the Gospel with others. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” We are to be witnesses of Christ’s love and truth in the world.
- Compassion and Service: God expects us to show compassion and serve others, particularly those in need (James 1:27). Even Jesus didn’t hesitate when it came down to helping people and showing concern.
- Forgiveness and Reconciliation: God expects us to forgive others as He has forgiven us. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Forgiveness is essential for maintaining right relationships and reflecting God’s grace.
- Stewardship of Resources: God expects us to be good stewards of the resources, talents, and time He has entrusted to us. 1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” This involves using our blessings to honor God and help others.
- Perseverance in Trials: God expects us to endure hardships with faith and patience, trusting in His sovereignty. James 1:2-4 encourages us to “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” God uses trials to refine our character and strengthen our faith.
There is a lot more that goes into our Identity as Christians but some are more personal and vary per individual; skills l, talents, expectations, maturity etc.No matter what stage we are or how ready we are to accept this identity we mustn’t forget the goal. It is not and will never be easy especially in today’s world but even then let’s remember our purpose here on earth.
” If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” (John 15:18-19)
Stay Blessed x
