Who Are We?: Identity in Christ
Our culture is filled with ways to define who we are that at their core can tend to define and divide us in ways God never intended. Before we label ourselves this, that or the other thing, can we simply look at and believe in the descriptors God uses to define us? Knowing who we are in Christ will set us on a path that will unite us as a church when the world seeks to divide us as individuals.
I am a New Creation in Christ
Becoming a follower of Christ means the end of one life and the beginning of a new one. We see things from a new perspective, we do things with a new power, i have a new mind, spirit and heart driving my actions. We no longer live as slaves to human desires but with the freedom to live Holy lives – set apart for Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:16-21) Sermon Outline Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new…
I am the Temple of the Holy Spirit
Our bodies matter. God the Father created our bodies, God the Son redeemed them, and God the Holy Spirit indwells them. If God meant simply to express the idea that the Spirit lives within believers, He could just have used words such as “home,” or “house” But by choosing the word “temple” to describe the Spirit’s dwelling, He conveys the idea that our bodies are sacred places. (1 Corinthians 6:19) Sermon Outline “Do you not know that your bodies are…
I am a Part of the Body of Christ
The body of Christ can be a remarkable thing when it works well together. A variety of giftings and resources coming together to see God’s Kingdom built. But just like when part of our physical body isn’t accomplishing it’s role – if we’re not contributing our part to the body, the whole thing suffers. (1 Corinthians 12:12-31) Sermon Outline “Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.” 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 has four parts. Part 1: The Body and Water (vs. 12-13) The Body: Christianity…
I am a Citizen in God’s Kingdom
As a citizen of any country, there are things we come to expect. Regardless of where you live or grow up, if you belong to God, you are not just a citizen of your country, you are also a citizen of the kingdom of God. There are privileges and expectations that come with this: We live under the Lordship of Christ – His commands and direction as given in the Bible. (1 Peter 2:9-12; Ephesians 2:19-20) Sermon Outline Jesus began…
I am a Child of God
Different families often pass along reputations and traits that identify their members. Some families are marked by red hair. Having God as our Father brings with it many identifying markers as well – both privileges and obligations. Our identity as a child of God means that we rely fully on God and trust in His plan for our lives. (Romans 8:15-17; Ephesians 1:3-10) Sermon Outline “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”…