Why is it so vital to understand your true identity in Christ? It is not merely a theological exercise; it is the foundation that dictates how you live, how you love, and how you overcome the enemy's lies.
The Context
We begin by looking at the powerful story in Luke 7, where a "notorious sinner" anoints Jesus' feet with her tears while a Pharisee looks on in judgment. This narrative highlights a profound truth: those who understand the depth of their forgiveness love much, while those who do not understand God's grace love little. This story sets the stage for understanding why knowing our REAL ID is crucial for a vibrant relationship with God.
The Core Message
In this recap message, we confront a common misconception in the church—the idea that "He must increase, but I must decrease" implies a balancing act between our flesh and Jesus. Instead, we look to Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 3 to see that our lives are actually "hidden with Christ in God." It is not that He is greater than I; it is that He is everything. We are not just trying to give Jesus a little more room; we have died, and He is our new life.
The Word of God is truth, but it only becomes transformative when we choose to believe it. By consistently washing ourselves in the Word, we move from one degree of glory to another, becoming living billboards that point the world back to the Master Artist.
The Application
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Reject the Balancing Act: Stop trying to minimize yourself and maximize Jesus; instead, accept that your old self is dead and Christ is your life.
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Interrogate Your Thoughts: Take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). If a thought doesn't line up with your REAL ID, dismiss it immediately.
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Meditate on Truth: Don't just hear these truths once; let them sink deep into your spirit so you can stand firm when challenges come.
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Live as a Masterpiece: Allow your passion and joy in Christ to be the testimony that draws others to the Father, just as a masterpiece points to its painter.
Conclusion
Take time this week to anchor your soul in these truths, allowing the reality of who you are in Christ to transform your daily walk.
Here are some of the concepts we'll be touching on in today's message:
Identity In Christ, REAL ID, Elite Life, Grace, Forgiveness, The Sinful Woman, Simon The Pharisee, New Creation, Righteousness Of God, Masterpiece, Saint, Sanctification, Spiritual Warfare, Biblical Truth, Transformation, Hidden In Christ.
Scripture References:
Luke 7:36-50, Galatians 2:20, Colossians 3:1-4, John 8:32, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 8:16, Ephesians 2:10, 1 John 4:11, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.
