Identity in Christ

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

"Those who have a why to live can bear almost any how." Acts 27 demonstrates this truth through Paul's shipwreck experience. Facing certain death, Paul didn't just survive, he led others through the crisis with supernatural calm. The difference? He knew he belonged to God. Challenges will either reveal the emptiness of self-reliance or deepen our trust in Christ's sufficiency.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

How do you respond when the world becomes hostile to your faith? Paul faced false accusations and imprisonment, yet maintained integrity and truth. The real battle isn't external opposition—it's internal. When people reject Christ, they're wrestling with surrendering their own throne. Paul shows us that responding with character, not defensiveness, reveals Christ's power even in persecution.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Paul could have responded to his attackers with defensiveness or despair. Instead, he chose compassion, because he remembered where he once stood. Having been transformed from persecutor to proclaimer, Paul knew that sharing his encounter with Christ wasn't about impressing others with his story, but about revealing God's pursuing love that can transform any heart.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

"I do not count my life of any value nor as precious to myself," Paul declares in Acts 20. He discovered what many miss: finding your worth through God's love, not self-focus, leads to a life of purpose and influence. The more we know God's incredible love, the more we desire to honor Him with our lives.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

What makes you most anxious? What consumes your time and energy? These questions reveal the idols we don't even realize we're serving. In Acts 19, the Ephesians burned their magic books because they found something infinitely better in Jesus. Victory isn't about becoming a better version of yourself, it's about discovering who you truly are in Christ.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 9:1-31 shows that moving from sinner to servant requires dying to our self-made identity and receiving God's chosen purpose, as Saul the Pharisee became Paul the apostle. Jesus's words "Why are you persecuting Me?" reveal that attacking the church means attacking Christ Himself—a truth that revolutionized Saul's theology. When Barnabas risked his reputation to vouch for Saul, he modeled how God uses courageous bridge-builders to integrate transformed lives into the community of faith.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 4 teaches that the gospel transforms cultures not through compromise but through believers who know who they are because they know who God is. When religious leaders arrested Peter and John for healing a lame man, they revealed the real issue wasn't truth but control. The apostles' boldness came not from arrogance but from an unshakeable foundation: a dead man was walking, proving Jesus's resurrection and validating their message that salvation exists in no other name.

From the series: Unshaken

This church faced challenges, but they didn't let circumstances dictate who they were. Rather, they discovered something deeper in Jesus which could never be taken away from them. They chose to sustain themselves in every circumstance through their relationship with Christ.

From the series: Summer in the Psalms

Psalm 16 calls us to find joy in the Lord, not letting circumstances dictate our peace. We remember that true joy is rooted in an enduring hope in God, who sustains us through every trial. David’s trust in the Lord, even in difficulty, teaches us to rest in His presence, anchor our faith in Him, and build a lasting community centered on His goodness.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 19 celebrates the triumph of Christ, revealing Him as the victorious Lamb and Bridegroom. The fall of Babylon contrasts with the marriage supper of the Lamb, inviting believers to wholehearted devotion. True worship comes from rooting ourselves in God’s promises, embracing our identity in Christ, and living in anticipation of His return.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 14 contrasts the false hope of Babylon with the enduring victory of Christ. It calls believers to genuine worship rooted in a secure identity, reminding us that our foundation is in God’s unshakable kingdom. True joy and endurance come from proclaiming the gospel, trusting in His justice, and living faithfully.

From the series: Late Summer in the Psalms

Psalm 139 is known as the "Omni Psalm" that examines the omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence of God. It helps us understand who God truly is and how this knowledge should shape our lives to honor and glorify Him.

From the series: In the Beginning

In Genesis 39, we see Joseph at a pivotal moment in his life. He's been brought to Egypt, and God has blessed him with a place of honor and responsibility in Potiphar's house. In this, he faces a number of choices that reflect where his priorities are. Will he give in to the temptations placed before him, or will he honor God with his life?

From the series: Standalone Messages

Do you ever feel like you are wearing labels that define you? Are those labels who you really are? Today, we examine who we are in Christ and come to realize we are more than just the labels we are given.

From the series: In the Beginning

God uses circumcision as a sign of the covenant that he establishes between himself and Abraham. It’s a reminder that our life should be fully surrendered to God.

From the series: In the Beginning

During a time of conflict and waring armies, we see Abraham honoring God and the people around him through his actions. What are some of the characteristics that make someone honorable?

From the series: In the Beginning

What's great about Genesis is even though people continue again and again to fall flat on their face, it gives us hope because God doesn't quit on us. He is consistent in his nature that while we continue to fall away from the Lord and reject him, God is faithful.

From the series: In the Beginning

In Genesis 2, God creates man and woman, each with value and uniqueness. We were created in God's image to have a personal relationship with him, and we reflect his creative nature.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

As we conclude our series on the book of Romans, Paul gives us warnings about people who might deceive us to follow a personality instead of Jesus. They take the gospel message and twist it to serve their own selfish ambitions. We need to weigh all things against the truth of the Bible.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

As the Apostle Paul is concluding the book of Romans, he's reminiscing on the things that the church has learned and now looking forward to the future that the church has before them.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Through the resurrection of Jesus we've been give a living hope, a new inheritance as sons and daughters of God that is eternally secure in Him.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

This passage is really the transitional section of the book of Romans that takes us from a place of understanding really who we are in Christ and now how to live for Christ.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

Through Christ our future is made secure, and we can place our hope in that. God loved us so much that Jesus gave His life for us. This world will throw a lot of stuff at us, but nothing can ever separate us from the love of Jesus.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

As we begin Romans 8, Paul examines the new life we have through the Holy Spirit. We are no longer slaves to our sinful nature; we have been raised from death to life.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

In our human nature, we can respond to God by either becoming rebellious and saying no to the rules, or becoming religious and trying to follow all the rules. Fortunately, Jesus gives us a third option though grace in a relationship with Him.

From the series: Jars of Clay

When the Apostle Paul says, "Do not be mismatched with unbelievers" what does he mean? Is he just talking about marriage? Today, we examine a larger point he’s making about our position in our community.

From the series: Jars of Clay

In 2 Corinthians 5, the Apostle Paul encourages us to "persuade others". This doesn't mean being pushy, but to provide a reasonable explanation of how Jesus could have an impact on their lives.

From the series: Jars of Clay

The sense of smell can invoke memories and emotional reactions. In today's passage Paul reminds us of how we are to be the pleasing aroma of Christ in this world. We need to be people of sincerity, sharing the love of Jesus with those around us.

From the series: Jars of Clay

When you live for Christ, there will be people who don't agree with you and criticize you for your faith. How do we respond to our critics? We need to plant our roots deep into Jesus.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

In Esther 5, we see Queen Esther approaching the king with humility and honor in her desire to save her people, the Jews. Meanwhile, Haman, one of the king's officials, is filled with pride, and his anger burned towards the Jews.

From the series: Light the Dark

As we wrap up our study of the book of John, we hear Jesus saying, "Follow Me.” Join us, as we examine what it looks like to successfully follow after Jesus.

From the series: Light the Dark

What Jesus is saying to us is that the plan for which he came has now been completed. Jesus came to this world to give his life as a ransom for many. The cost for your life so that you could have a relationship with God for all of eternity. Jesus paid it all.

From the series: Light the Dark

Discusses persevering in faith and avoiding spiritual stumbling, as guided by John 16. It emphasizes Jesus' teachings about facing adversity and the importance of staying faithful to God's path. Highlights the challenges and choices faced by believers, encouraging them to rely on God's presence and promises for guidance and strength in difficult times.

From the series: Light the Dark

Addressing the challenge of living a victorious Christian life, emphasizing the spiritual vulnerability individuals face, especially in adversity, and the tendency of Satan to exploit weaknesses. Provides insights on maintaining a strong relationship with Christ, recognizing the spiritual implications of our actions, and the empowerment of believers through the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's purpose.

From the series: Light the Dark

Focuses on Jesus' act of washing his disciples' feet in John 13. It emphasizes humility, servant leadership, and the importance of continually seeking forgiveness and closeness with God. The sermon interprets the foot washing as a metaphor for Jesus' sacrificial love and a call for believers to practice humility and service in their daily lives, fostering a deeper, ongoing relationship with God.

From the series: Light the Dark

Jesus demonstrates the power of genuine leadership in John 13. He does this by putting people before before position, and treating everyone with humility, compassion and love.

From the series: Light the Dark

When it feels like the world around us is falling apart, Jesus stands as the absolute source of truth and light in the midst of chaos, confusion, and shaky foundations.

From the series: Pursuing God's Heart

We examine 2 Samuel 23 and how the Lord uses his warriors to bring victory.

From the series: Pursuing God's Heart

This week we are going to be studying 1 Samuel 18. We'll learn how envy destroys the soul but that we can find freedom.

From the series: All In

With all the pressures and enticements of this world, choosing to follow Jesus can sometimes look a little bizarre. We continue our discussion in 1 Peter and learn how we can be a blessing to the world around us without being overwhelmed by it.

From the series: All In

Explores the concept of divine calling and purpose, drawing from the teachings in 1 Peter. It emphasizes the significance of understanding and embracing God's design and intentions for individuals, especially during challenging times. Highlights how God uses adversity and waiting periods to refine and prepare believers for their future roles, illustrating this through biblical examples like Moses, Elijah, and Esther.

From the series: All In

Government ... how should we respond? The answer helps us examine our spiritual health as Christians. We are continuing through our sermon series “All In” from 1 Peter. Together we are learning what it means to live for the Lord through any circumstance.

From the series: All In

This week Peter wants us to understand the power of Christ’s kingdom and the important identity he gives to those that belong to his kingdom. God reminds we can live out our new identity we find in him no matter the circumstance we face.

From the series: Kingdom Come

We begin a new series, "Kingdom Come," exploring the big themes of the Bible. And what better place to start than at the beginning.

From the series: 1 John

Focuses on the conclusion of the book of 1 John, emphasizing the confidence believers should have in their relationship with Christ. It highlights the importance of living in God's will, engaging in a life of prayer, and embracing eternal life through a relationship with Jesus. Discusses understanding God's will, the significance of praying according to that will, and the impact of faith and love in a believer's life.

From the series: 1 John

We examine 1 John 5 and discover what it means when it talks about "water, blood and Spirit."

From the series: 1 John

We look at how to handle conviction in our lives, as we continue our study in the book of 1 John.

From the series: 1 John

We continue our series on 1 John, looking at righteousness and morality.

From the series: 1 John

We continue our series on the book of 1 John. Today we are looking at how we can have a Godly influence on our community and culture.

From the series: 1 John

Join us as we continue our study in 1 John and learning how to grow as disciples of Christ.

From the series: Elijah

Revolves around self-identity and aligning personal desires with God's plan. It delves into the importance of choosing a life that reflects Christian values and the character of Jesus. Encourages introspection and living a life of intentionality, shaped by one's relationship with God and the teachings of the Bible. It emphasizes the transformative nature of faith and the pursuit of a Christ-like life.

From the series: Planted

Discusses the importance of church health and leadership. It emphasizes the role of individual members in contributing to a thriving church community. Draws from Paul's letter to Titus, focusing on how believers should view themselves, their relationship with God, and their approach to ministry. It encourages a servant-like attitude in church leadership and life, drawing parallels to Paul's teachings on being a bond servant to God.

From the series: Journey to the Empty Tomb

Emphasizes the transformational journey of Apostle Paul and the essence of truly knowing Christ. It delves into the concept of righteousness through faith versus the law, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus rather than mere religious adherence. The sermon stresses that true knowledge of God leads to a life conforming to His will, transcending traditional religious practices.

From the series: The Genius of Jesus

Discusses the story of Mary anointing Jesus with expensive perfume and Judas' objection to it. It contrasts Mary's act of devotion and Judas' hypocritical attitude, highlighting the inner conflict between selfless worship and selfish motives. It encourages us to reflect on our own attitudes towards Jesus and challenges us to worship authentically, like Mary, rather than being critical or hypocritical like Judas.

From the series: The Genius of Jesus

Discusses how identity in Christ shapes our lives. It examines the biblical story where Jesus is questioned about paying taxes to Caesar, focusing on the deeper message of rendering to God what is God's. It highlights the importance of recognizing where our true allegiance lies and how our actions reflect our devotion to God. It encourages believers to consider how they represent God's image in their daily lives.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Discusses the concept of true value from a Christian perspective. It challenges the typical materialistic view of value and wealth, encouraging listeners to consider what they truly value in life. Uses biblical narratives and personal reflections to illustrate how easy it is to misplace value on temporal things. It urges a reevaluation of priorities, suggesting that true value lies in spiritual richness and aligning one's life with God's teachings, rather than accumulating material wealth or success.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Explores the concept of Christians as the physical representation of Christ on Earth. It emphasizes the importance of each individual's role in the church, akin to different body parts, and the necessity of working collectively for the unity and function of the church. Highlights the significance of living out Christian values and being an example of Christ's teachings in daily life.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Discusses finding true freedom through faith in Jesus. It emphasizes that freedom in Christ goes beyond mere liberation from sin, involving a deeper transformation and purpose. Connects this concept with biblical passages, illustrating how Jesus's life and sacrifice offer a path to genuine freedom and purpose in serving God and others.

From the series: Recovery Road

Focuses on the story of Hosea and Gomer, using their relationship as a metaphor for our relationship with God. It emphasizes the theme that in our brokenness and sin, God still pursues us with love and grace. Highlights the importance of understanding our identity in God, and how our insecurities often lead us towards idolatry. It stresses that true healing and recovery come from embracing our identity in Christ, understanding His sacrificial love, and recognizing that we are valued by God, not because of our actions but because of His grace.

From the series: Recovery Road

Delves into the complex relationship between God and the people of Israel as depicted in the book of Hosea. It illustrates God's unwavering love and commitment towards a wayward Israel, using the metaphor of Hosea's marriage to Gomer, a prostitute. Highlights themes of redemption, love, and forgiveness, emphasizing how God continually reaches out to his people despite their rebellion and sin, offering restoration and a renewed relationship.

From the series: Jesus Is Greater

Discusses the significance of Jesus Christ and His impact on our lives. It emphasizes the importance of understanding Jesus's preeminence and how it shapes our identity and purpose. Encourages living in alignment with Christ's teachings and the importance of prayer, humility, and grace in daily life. It underscores the transformative power of Jesus in guiding our actions and words, advocating a life that reflects Christ's love and values.

From the series: Jesus Is Greater

Focuses on the transformation in believers' lives through Christ. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing a new identity found in Christ, which leads to a life that reflects His teachings and values. Encourages a shift from old patterns to new, Christ-centered ways of living, highlighting the significant change in one's thoughts, actions, and interactions with others as a result of this new identity in Jesus.

From the series: Follow Me

Emphasizes the importance of focusing on a relationship with Jesus rather than being caught up in activities or societal expectations. It discusses how following Jesus is a call to a deeper, personal connection with Him, which is foundational to living a life of purpose and fulfillment.

From the series: Move Past

Discusses the concept of "Your Modeling Career" in a spiritual context, emphasizing how Christians are called to model their lives after Christ. It addresses the transformation that occurs when one accepts Christ, using the Apostle Paul as an example of radical change and dedication to God.

From the series: #Jesus

Delves into Jesus's identity as the servant King, emphasizing His role in fulfilling God's law and His teachings on the Beatitudes. It discusses the significance of living according to the Kingdom's principles, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus's message on personal identity and purpose within God's kingdom.

From the series: 4 things I wish you knew about God

Discusses the transformation of identity through Christ. It emphasizes the concept of losing one's old identity and embracing a new one in God. Explores themes like discipleship, the journey of faith, and the importance of living in alignment with God's plan. It highlights the significance of Jesus's teachings and how they shape believers' lives, encouraging a deeper understanding of God's desires and the pursuit of a Christ-centered life.

From the series: Joy in the Broken

Focuses on prioritizing a relationship with Christ above all, emphasizing that true Christian life involves knowing Jesus intimately and relationally. It encourages letting go of past failures and focusing on spiritual growth through a personal connection with Christ.

From the series: Joy in the Broken

Examines how Paul’s contentment, while imprisoned, showcases spiritual freedom and strength in Christ, transcending physical circumstances. It emphasizes embracing spiritual growth and purpose, regardless of life's challenges, by focusing on faith and God’s plan.

From the series: FAQs

Emphasizes confidence in salvation through understanding the finished and ongoing work of Christ. It discusses the importance of a personal, relational faith over mere religious observance, stressing that true security in Christ comes from intimate, personal knowledge of Jesus and the transformation He brings into our lives.

From the series: FAQs

Explains baptism as a symbolic act of faith and not as a requirement for salvation. It distinguishes baptism from the gospel, emphasizing that salvation comes through Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, not through the act of baptism itself.

From the series: Loving the Old Testament

Addresses the concept of identity through Genesis, emphasizing understanding life by knowing God and our origins. It explores the formation of Israel’s identity post-Exodus, stressing God's creation of humanity with purpose and value, and the importance of relationships, especially in marriage.

From the series: Live Free

Focuses on living out the freedom Christ offers, as discussed in Galatians. It emphasizes that believers act from God's acceptance, not for it, highlighting the Holy Spirit's role in transforming lives to reflect Christ's glory. Practical aspects include bearing one another's burdens, giving generously, and exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit in relationships and responsibilities.

From the series: Live Free

Discusses how believers often return to legalism and religious rules after experiencing the freedom found in Christ. It emphasizes that true freedom comes from grace and faith in Jesus, not from following the law or human efforts. Paul addresses the Galatians' struggle with this issue, reminding them that their identity is in Christ, who has freed them from the bondage of the law. He encourages them to live in the freedom of grace and not to revert to legalistic practices.

From the series: Live Free

Explains the new identity believers have in Christ, emphasizing freedom from the law and becoming children of God. It highlights the transition from being slaves under the law to being adopted as sons through faith in Jesus. This adoption changes our status, allowing us to call God "Abba, Father," and live in the liberty and inheritance of God's promises. Paul warns against reverting to old ways and encourages embracing this new identity, living in the grace and freedom provided by Christ's sacrifice.

From the series: Ecclesiastes

Focuses on Ecclesiastes 2, where Solomon explores the pursuit of pleasure and work, ultimately finding them meaningless without God. It highlights the futility of seeking fulfillment in worldly things and emphasizes that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God. The message encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual lives and seek contentment in God’s purpose for them.

From the series: Ephesians

Emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ before addressing practical aspects of Christian living. Paul focuses on knowing God and building a relationship with Him as the foundation for a faithful life. Encourages us to prioritize their spiritual connection with God, recognizing that true transformation and effective living come from a deep, personal relationship with Him. Prayer is highlighted as a crucial means to experience and align with God's will.

From the series: Living Hope

Emphasizes believers as living stones, built into a spiritual house with Christ as the cornerstone. It highlights the importance of continually coming to Jesus, setting aside sin, and growing through God's Word. Believers are called to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices and proclaiming God's excellencies. The passage urges Christians to maintain excellent behavior among non-believers, reflecting the transformative power of their faith and bringing glory to God through their actions.

From the series: Living Hope

Introduces the letter written by Peter to encourage believers facing trials. It emphasizes the hope and joy found in Christ, even amidst suffering. Peter highlights the importance of faith and the living hope believers have through the resurrection of Jesus. This hope is a source of strength and reassurance, reminding Christians of their inheritance in heaven and the security of their salvation.

From the series: Easter

Discusses Jesus' teachings and the reactions they elicited. Focusing on John 6, it explores the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus' statement about being the bread of life. This teaching led many to turn away, highlighting the cost of discipleship and the necessity of understanding and following Jesus wholeheartedly despite challenges. Encourages believers to recognize Jesus' worth and remain committed even when it's difficult.

From the series: A New Generation

Emphasizes the importance of having a relationship with Jesus, understanding His love, and living out one's faith in the world. Highlights how believers are called to pursue Jesus, experience His life, and share His love with others.

From the series: A New Generation

Addresses three groups: children, young men, and fathers, emphasizing the importance of knowing God and overcoming evil. It highlights the significance of forgiveness and spiritual growth. John warns against loving the world and its desires, encouraging believers to focus on doing God's will, which leads to eternal life. The message calls for a deep relationship with God and living a life that reflects Christian values.

From the series: Believe

Discusses the importance of giving as a reflection of one’s dedication to God. It emphasizes that giving should be done out of love and sacrifice, not just out of surplus. Encourages us to consider what truly rules their hearts, using the story of the widow’s mite as an example of selfless giving.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Focuses on the significance of baptism as a symbolic ceremony that represents a believer's union with Christ, the cleansing from sin, and their allegiance to Jesus. It explains that baptism is a public declaration of faith and an act of obedience, marking the transformation from an old life to a new one in Christ.

From the series: Believe

Emphasizing that true worship and belief in God are rooted in a personal relationship with Him rather than in religious rituals. It explores the idea that humans are created in the image of God, which includes the responsibility to reflect His attributes, such as love, holiness, and truth, in our lives.

From the series: Be Complete

Emphasizes the importance of maintaining and growing in one's relationship with Christ, likening it to a personal relationship that requires constant nourishment. It highlights the dangers of false beliefs and diluted truths infiltrating the church, using Paul's letter to the Colossians as a basis for encouraging believers to stand firm in the truth of Christ. Stresses the significance of understanding correct beliefs about Jesus and encourages the church to live out their faith in unity, love, and truth.

A well-restored classic car turns heads for a reason. A warm reminder that, in God's hands, you are a classic worth restoring too.

In Acts 4, people marveled that ordinary men had been with Jesus. A look at what it means, and what it produces, to spend your life with him.

Life can feel relentlessly busy. Ever wonder what God actually says about all that chaos? A look at the rest he wants for tired hearts.

We know Christians are supposed to be compassionate, but do we know why? A look at what compassion really is and where it comes from.

God has given us eternal life, and that life is in his Son. A devotion on 1 John 5 and two verses that anchor our assurance of salvation.

I have been crucified with Christ, yet I live. A devotion on Galatians 2:20 and the new life that comes from Christ living in us.

To live is Christ, to die is gain. A devotion on Philippians 1:21 and a life so caught up in Jesus that even death becomes pure gain.

Conviction draws us back to God; condemnation drives us into hiding. Knowing the difference between them can change your whole walk with Jesus.

Paul packs Ephesians 1 into one breathless sentence about the greatness of God. A message worth preaching to yourself every single day.

Satan loves to fill our heads with accusations like 'you're unworthy.' How to answer his lies by finishing the sentence with God's truth.