Who Am I in Christ?
Good afternoon, everyone! It is a joy to see you all here today. Before we dive into our message, let’s take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the fathers in our midst. We thank God for your love, your sacrifice, and the way you lead your families. Let us pray for all fathers today:
Father in Heaven, we thank You for the fathers You have placed in our lives. We pray that You would bless them with wisdom, strength, and endurance as they lead their families in faith. May they always look to You as their ultimate example of love and leadership. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Understanding Our Identity in Christ
As we continue in our series on the book of Colossians, we arrive at a crucial question: Who am I in Christ?
Identity is a question that resonates deeply with all of us. We often define ourselves by our roles—father, mother, son, daughter, worker, or student. But what truly defines us?
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, helps us understand our identity in Christ. Colossians 2:9-10 says, “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ, you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” This passage tells us two essential truths:
- Jesus is God. In Him, the fullness of Deity dwells.
- In Christ, we are made complete. Our true identity is not found in the things of the world, but in Him.
The Identity Given by the Father
Our identity is not something we create for ourselves—it is given. Just as a child receives their family name at birth, we receive our identity from our Heavenly Father. In Matthew 3:17, when Jesus was baptized, a voice from Heaven declared: “This is My Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased.”
Before Jesus performed any miracles, before He taught the crowds, before He went to the cross, the Father declared His love for Him. This same truth applies to us. Before we do anything for God, He already loves us. We do not earn our identity—we receive it through Christ.
Who Is Christ?
Paul’s goal in writing to the Colossians was to ensure they knew Christ deeply. Colossians 2:2-3 says, “My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
To understand our identity, we must first understand who Jesus is. Jesus Himself declares in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” The Jews asked Him plainly, “Who are you?” And He answered, but many still did not believe.
Is it possible that God has revealed Himself to us many times, yet we fail to recognize Him? Do we listen, yet not believe?
A Testimony of Faith
There are moments in life when our faith is tested. Let me share a personal story. My wife and I were overjoyed when we found out we were expecting our first child. However, during the third trimester, a routine ultrasound revealed abnormalities. The doctors diagnosed our baby with skeletal dysplasia, a condition that could range from mild deformities to life-threatening complications.
We prayed fervently, sought medical opinions, and hoped for a miracle. The second ultrasound only confirmed the diagnosis—it even seemed worse than before. We wrestled with God in prayer, surrendering our plans and desires to Him.
Then came the third ultrasound. This time, the doctors were astonished. The abnormalities that had been present were gone. Our baby was completely healthy.
I cannot explain it. But what I do know is this: God answers prayers. He is in control. He is good.
This experience solidified our faith as a family. We decided that no matter what, we would trust and serve this God who is sovereign, loving, and powerful.
Who Are We in Christ?
Knowing who Christ is leads us to the next question: Who am I in Christ? Paul tells us in Colossians 2:6-7, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
A follower of Christ is someone who:
- Receives Jesus – We do not earn salvation; we receive it as a gift.
- Lives in Him – Our identity is rooted in Christ, not in our accomplishments.
- Is Strengthened in Faith – Through trials and blessings, we grow deeper in our relationship with Him.
- Overflows with Thankfulness – Gratitude marks the life of a believer.
A Final Challenge
As we close, let me ask you: Do you know who you are in Christ?
The world may tell you that your worth is based on your success, your failures, or the opinions of others. But God says:
- You are chosen. (1 Peter 2:9)
- You are loved. (Romans 8:38-39)
- You are redeemed. (Ephesians 1:7)
- You are complete in Him. (Colossians 2:10)
Do not let the world define you. Let God’s Word define you. Who you are is found in Christ alone.
Let us pray:
Father, we thank You for the truth of Your Word. Help us to embrace our identity in Christ, to live as people who are loved, redeemed, and complete in You. Strengthen our faith, deepen our understanding, and let our lives reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
