Our Identity in Christ [Re-Introduction]…

May 14, 2008 | 12:00 AM

One of the first priorities for a new Christian should be to understand his or her biblical self-concept. Dr. James B. Richards, in his book How to Stop the Pain, explains, “Of all the pain-producing, destructive aspects of judgment, self-judgment is the worst. Why? Self-judgment becomes the basis for our self-talk. Negative self-talk, coupled with the strong emotion it can produce, will write all manner of destructive things on our hearts. In the end, self-judgment usually becomes a condemnation or a justification—and neither is healthy.” A Christian’s understanding of his or her identity in Christ forms the foundation for life as a follower of Jesus. Richards reflects on the Apostle Paul’s self-concept.

He didn’t use self-judgment as an excuse to defend or condemn himself. Paul simply attempted to follow God wholeheartedly and walk in his love. His sense of identity came from his relationship with Jesus, not from his self-evaluation. He earnestly sought to follow God and keep a clear conscience. Because he was free from “works-righteousness” (trying to earn righteousness by what we do), he did not need the constant validation that comes from self-evaluation. He knew he was righteous in Jesus; that was the source of his peace.

By understanding his identity in Christ, the Apostle Paul found the security to live a full life pursuing the mission of God with complete perseverance. Richards makes a point in another book, Breaking the Cycle: “True completeness comes from the sense of who you are, not from what you process or what you can accomplish.” This series’ purpose is to offer a general view of a believer’s identity in Christ.

Posted in Christianity, Identity in Christ Series, Life, Theology