“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

Many times, we find ourselves confused about what it truly means to have an identity in Christ. For some, the concept can feel abstract or difficult to fully grasp. But let’s begin by explaining what identity means.

Simply put, identity is the blueprint of who a person is. It encompasses a person’s mindset, values, beliefs, lifestyle, and overall way of life. It defines how we see ourselves and how others perceive us. On a daily basis, our identity is shaped by how we; conduct ourselves, speak, dress, eat, and relate with others. Of which through observations, people form perceptions on who we are.

With a foundational grasp of identity, how do we then define what it means to have our identity in Christ?

Our anchor scripture speaks of a specific group of people; not just everyone, but those who are in Christ. This means that once we are in Christ, our identity changes. The old life is gone, and a new life has begun. But how does one come into this new identity? It begins with accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. The moment we received Him into our hearts, we agreed to put to death the “old man” which is our former sinful nature, and take on a new identity. This new identity is not shaped by the world, but by Christ Himself.

Having accepted Christ, to have an identity in Christ means to embrace His values, His culture, His way of life. It means that when people look at us, they should see traces of Jesus, because our lives now reflect Him. We are in Christ, and Christ is in us. We are His representatives on earth, called to reveal to the world what it truly means to live a life anchored in Him.

“By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.” ~ 1 John 4: 13

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for the new identity I have found in You.