Without Christ, you are already Damned!

When the Bible refers to all being "lost" or "damned," it highlights the universal condition of humanity separated from God, lost and unable in their own strength and understanding to find a way back. The concept is rooted in the idea that all people have sinned and fallen short of God's perfect standard. Sin has been judged, and sinners are condemned. Can we know why this happened?

Biblical Context

• John 3:18: "Whoever believes in Christ is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son." Jesus emphasizes that those who do not believe in Him are already condemned, implying that without faith in Christ, people remain in a state of spiritual death or "lostness."
• Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse underscores that every person has sinned, meaning everyone is guilty before God. Sin separates humanity from God, resulting in spiritual death.
• Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." The "wages of sin" refers to the just penalty for sin, which is death—not just physical death, but eternal separation from God, often referred to as "damnation."

Why Do People Sin and Fall Short of God's Standards?

People sin and fall short of God's standards because of the inherent sinful nature that humanity possesses. This condition is rooted in the biblical account of the Fall of Man, which has theological and practical implications for understanding human behavior and the nature of why we sin.

1. The Fall of Man (Genesis 3)

• Original Sin: According to the Bible, sin entered the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). When they ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they disobeyed God's command, introducing sin into the human experience. This act of rebellion is often referred to as "original sin."
• Inherited Sin Nature: The concept of original sin implies that all of Adam's descendants inherit a sinful nature. This means that people are born with an inclination toward sin, making it natural for them to fall short of God's standards. Separated from God, all that humanity has left is the “flesh.” We trust in the information our 5 senses give us and our own understanding to make our choices and decisions, believing we know the difference between “good and evil.”

2. The Sinful Nature Overcome

Paul’s struggle with the flesh is vividly described by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8:1-17. He contrasts the Mosaic Law with what God has accomplished through Christ. The "law of the Spirit of life" refers to the new principle or “law” at work in believers through the Holy Spirit, which brings life and freedom from the "law of sin and death." This is something the Mosaic Law could not do because it was "weakened by the flesh," meaning that human sinful nature made it impossible for the law to produce the righteousness it demanded.

3. Free Will and Human Choice

• Choosing Sin: Although humanity is born with a sinful nature, people also actively choose to sin, deciding for themselves what is “good or evil.” Sinful behavior often stems from self-centered desires, pride, and the temptation to satisfy immediate desires over obedience to God.
• Deception by the Enemy: The Bible also speaks of Satan as the deceiver who leads people into sin (2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 6:12). He blinds people to the truth of God and entices them to disobey.

4. God’s Standards and Holiness

• God’s Perfection: God’s standards are a reflection of His holiness and perfection (Leviticus 19:2, 1 Peter 1:16). His laws and commands are designed to align humanity with His nature, which is holy, just, and loving. Because of the sinful nature, however, humans continually fall short of these standards (Romans 3:23).
• Moral Law: The law given in the Old Testament, particularly the Ten Commandments, reveals God’s moral standards. The purpose of the law, among other things, is to show people their inability to achieve righteousness on their own and their need for a savior (Galatians 3:24).

5. The Role of Grace

Need for Grace: Since people cannot meet God's standards through their own efforts, the Bible teaches that salvation and right standing with God come through grace by faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). This grace is God’s unmerited favor, allowing people to be reconciled to Him despite their sinful nature.

Summary

People sin and fall short of God's standards because of the inherited nature of our physical bodies. It's a combination of trusting in our own limited perspective and the information we gather through our five senses, the personal choices made from that information, and the influence of external lies and temptations. The Fall of Man and the resulting separation from God set the stage for all humanity to be born with this inclination toward sin, and as a result, no one can meet God's perfect standards on their own. However, through faith in Jesus Christ, people can be forgiven, restored into a new relationship, and begin to be transformed, and empowered to live according to God's will, overcoming the nature of the flesh through the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit.

Created for Relationship with God

1. Imago Dei (Image of God)

The Bible teaches that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). This means that we are uniquely designed to reflect God's character and to be in a personal relationship with Him. This relationship is foundational to our identity and purpose.

2. Fellowship with God

From the beginning, God's desire was for humanity to walk in close fellowship with Him. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve experienced this perfect relationship before the Fall. Even after sin entered the world, God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ seeks to restore this relationship (John 17:3).

3. Participating in God’s Ongoing Creation

• Stewardship of Creation: God gave humanity the responsibility to "fill the earth and subdue it" and to "have dominion" over all living things (Genesis 1:28). This command indicates that we are called to be stewards of creation, participating in God’s ongoing work by caring for and cultivating the world He made.
• Co-Creators with God: As we live out our God-given creativity and capacities, we reflect the Creator. Whether through art, work, innovation, or community building, we are invited to be co-creators with God, contributing to the flourishing of His creation.

4. Trusting in God’s Guidance

• Dependence on God: Proverbs 3:5-6 emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord with all our hearts and not leaning on our own understanding. This trust is essential for aligning our lives with God’s will and participating in His purposes.
• Guidance through the Holy Spirit: For believers, the Holy Spirit is the guide who leads us into all truth (John 16:13 & Romans 8:14). By relying on the Spirit's guidance, we can discern God's will and creatively engage in His plans for the world.

5. Creative Participation in God’s Mission

• Vocation and Calling: Every person has a unique identity and calling, a way to serve God’s kingdom in their daily lives. When we align our work and lives with God’s purposes, we participate in His mission to redeem and restore creation.
• Bringing Glory to God: Ultimately, our creative participation in God’s work is meant to bring glory to Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). Whether through our work, relationships, or acts of service, we are called to reflect His glory in all that we do.

Summary

God created us to be in a relationship with Him and to participate in His ongoing work of creation. By trusting in His guidance and walking in His ways, we are invited to creatively engage in His purposes for the world. This reflects not only our role as stewards of creation but also our identity as His children, called to live out His love, wisdom, and creativity in every aspect of life.

God's desire is that we would fulfill the role of “Stewards of Creation” willingly, not coerced but because we recognize Him as our loving creator.

Why Would God Allow Us to Do Anything but Fulfill that Purpose?

This question touches on some deep theological concepts, particularly the nature of free will, love, and the relationship between God and humanity. Here’s a breakdown of how these ideas interact:

1. The Gift of Free Will

• True Love Requires Choice: At the heart of God’s decision to grant free will is His desire for a genuine, loving relationship with humanity. For love to be authentic, it must be freely chosen. If humans were compelled to fulfill their purpose without the option to choose otherwise, their love and devotion to God would not be genuine but rather a result of compulsion.
• Freedom to Choose: God granted humanity free will so that, through our love, trust, and obedience, we might willingly participate in His ongoing work of creation. This freedom inherently allows for the possibility of making choices contrary to God’s will, which is why we can sometimes fall short of our intended purpose. Creation was not a single act of God but is an ongoing activity in which we are invited to actively participate in.

2. The Nature of Relationship

• Reciprocal Relationship: God desires a reciprocal relationship with us, one where we respond to His love with our own love and trust. This dynamic relationship mirrors the mutual love within the Trinity and extends to God’s relationship with humanity. The possibility of rejection or failure to fulfill our purpose is a necessary condition for a relationship that is real and meaningful.
• Invitation to Trust and Obey: Throughout Scripture, God invites His people to trust and obey Him, promising blessings and fulfillment when they do. However, this invitation assumes that the possibility of disobedience exists (Deuteronomy 30:19-20).

3. The Consequences of Free Will

• The Reality of Sin and Brokenness: With free will comes the potential for sin—choosing actions or attitudes that go against God’s will. The existence of sin and brokenness in the world is a direct consequence of human choices that deviate from God’s intended purpose (Genesis 3, Romans 5:12).
• God’s Redemptive Plan: Despite the reality of sin, God’s plan includes redemption and restoration. He allows humanity to experience the consequences of our choices to help us recognize our need for Him and to bring about repentance and reconciliation through Christ (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

4. God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

• God’s Sovereignty: While God allows humans to choose their path, He remains sovereign and ultimately works all things according to His will. Even human rebellion and sin can be used by God to fulfill His greater purposes (Ephesians 1:11, Genesis 50:20).
• Human Responsibility: The Bible consistently affirms that humans are responsible for their choices. This responsibility is part of what it means to be made in the image of God, with the ability to make moral decisions and bear the consequences of those decisions (Galatians 6:7-8).

5. The Goal of Transformation and Growth

• Spiritual Maturity: Allowing humans to make choices, even wrong ones, is part of God’s plan for our spiritual growth and maturity. Through the challenges and consequences of our decisions, we learn to rely on God, grow in wisdom, and become more like Christ (James 1:2-4, Romans 8:29).
• The Role of Grace: God’s grace is available to bring us back into alignment with His purpose whenever we fall short. His patience, long-suffering, and mercy are evident in how He continually calls us back to Himself, offering forgiveness and restoration (1 John 1:9, 2 Peter 3:9).

Summary

God allows humans to do more than just fulfill their intended purpose. He desires a genuine, loving relationship with us, one that is based on free will and choice. While this freedom includes the possibility of sin and falling short, it also allows for authentic love, growth, and the opportunity for redemption. God's sovereignty and redemptive plan work through and beyond human choices, continually inviting us back into a relationship with Him and the fulfillment of our true purpose.

Why is Humanity Damned?

Humanity is damned because our nature in the flesh decides what is best to do. We believed the lie of the enemy that said we would be able to tell the difference between good and evil; all of us are "broken," lost in our own version of truth. But God allowed us to bear the fruit of our independence. And had a plan from the beginning to redeem us from the guilt of sin that caused Adam and Eve to run and hide from God. “In Christ,” we have been forgiven, are being forgiven, and will be forgiven. No longer do we need to run away and hide. So for those who accept this free gift, we are brought back into a relationship with God. And for those who reject this gift of salvation; they are still damned.

This is the Essence of the Biblical Narrative and the Core Message of the Gospel

This understanding aligns with the broader biblical themes of sin, redemption, and restoration.

The Fall and Its Consequences

• The Lie and the Fall: In the Garden of Eden, the serpent (representing the enemy) deceived Adam and Eve by suggesting that they could become like God, knowing good and evil, by eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:4-5). This deception led to humanity's first act of disobedience, rooted in pride and a desire for autonomy—choosing to determine their own version of truth rather than trusting in God’s command.
• Brokenness and Separation: As a result of this choice, humanity became "broken," losing their original state of innocence and communion with God. This brokenness manifests as spiritual death, alienation from God, and the prevalence of sin and suffering in the world.

The Fruit of Independence

• Bearing the Consequences: God, in His wisdom, allowed humanity to experience the consequences of their choice—spiritual death, a distorted understanding of good and evil, and a world marred by sin. This is the fruit of independence from God, leading to a state of being "lost" or "damned" apart from His grace.

God's Redemptive Plan

• Planned from the Beginning: Despite the Fall, God had a plan for redemption from the very beginning (Genesis 3:15). The promise of a Savior, who would crush the serpent’s head, foreshadows the coming of Christ, who would defeat sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross.
• Continuous Forgiveness in Christ: In Christ, we receive forgiveness for our sins—past, present, and future (Hebrews 10:10-14). This forgiveness restores our relationship with God, removing the guilt and shame that cause us to run and hide from Him.

Restoration Through Christ

• Restored Relationship: For those who receive Christ’s atoning sacrifice and believe in Him, the broken relationship with God is restored. They are no longer condemned but are reconciled to God, becoming part of His family (Romans 8:1, John 1:12).
• Ongoing Transformation: This restored relationship is not just a one-time event but involves ongoing transformation as believers grow in their relationship with God, becoming more like Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18).

The Consequence of Rejection

• Eternal Separation: Those who reject the free gift of salvation remain in their broken state, separated from God. The Bible teaches that this separation leads to eternal condemnation (John 3:18, Revelation 20:15). This is the tragic consequence of choosing to remain independent of God’s offer of grace.

Summary

Our conversation centers on the foundational biblical truths of humanity's fall, God's redemptive plan through Christ, and the importance of living in alignment with God's will. It highlights that humanity became "broken" and lost due to the initial distrust of God's word and the choice to determine their own version of truth, leading to separation from God. However, God's plan from the beginning was to redeem and restore us through Christ, offering continuous forgiveness and a restored relationship for those who accept this gift. Those who choose to reject the gift, however, remain in a state of separation, bearing the consequences of their choice.

In light of this, being a "Fully Actualized Kingdom Saint" comes into focus. It involves living in the fullness of God's guidance, provision, and care. We are to live in harmony with God, walking closely with Him and engaging in His ongoing creation. It involves realizing “God's Strategic Will,” His divine plan for our lives, “by grace, through faith.” This necessitates acknowledging our identity as “in Christ,” abiding in Him to fulfill our purpose willingly and joyfully. We trust God's grace to guide, provide for, and care for us as we navigate life's challenges.

In essence, the Fully Actualized Kingdom Saint is someone who, through faith and grace, aligns their life with God's purposes, experiencing the fullness of His guidance, provision, and care, actively participating in His redemptive work in the world. This alignment with God's will brings about transformation, spiritual maturity, and a deeper relationship with Him, leading to a life that reflects His kingdom on earth.

What Does It Mean to Be “In Christ”?

"You Are, So Be, and You'll Do"

The Bible provides a profound and multifaceted answer to that question. Here are some key aspects of who you “are” if you are in Christ:

A New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new". In Christ, you are made new, with your past forgiven, and your life is being transformed by His grace.

A Child of God

John 1:12: "Yet to all who did receive Christ, to those who believed in His name, he gave the right to become children of God." Being in Christ means you are adopted into God's family, with all the rights and privileges of being His child.

Justified and Righteous

2 Corinthians 5:21: "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." In Christ, you are justified—declared righteous before God—through faith, and your sin is exchanged for Christ's righteousness.

Free from Condemnation

Romans 8:1: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." In Christ, you are no longer condemned by your sins, as His sacrifice has set you free from condemnation and shame.

Co-Heir with Christ

Romans 8:17: "Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." Being in Christ makes you a co-heir with Him, sharing in His inheritance and eternal glory.

A Member of Christ’s Body

1 Corinthians 12:27: "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." In Christ, you are part of His body, the Church, with a unique role and purpose in His kingdom.

Chosen and Beloved

Ephesians 1:4-5: "For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will." You are chosen by God, loved, and predestined for adoption as His child.

A Citizen of Heaven

Philippians 3:20: "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." In Christ, your true citizenship is in heaven, and you are called to live with an eternal perspective.

God’s Workmanship

Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." You are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ for a purpose, to fulfill the good works of righteousness He has planned for you.

More Than a Conqueror

Romans 8:37: "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." In Christ, you are empowered to overcome any obstacle, living in victory through His love.

Summary

These truths collectively define who you are in Christ: a new creation, a beloved child of God, justified and righteous, free from condemnation, a co-heir with Christ, a member of His body, chosen and predestined, a citizen of heaven, God’s workmanship, and more than a conqueror. This identity is foundational to living out your faith and walking in the fullness of “God’s Guidance, Provision, and Care.”

"But I Have Found That Sometimes There Is Little Evidence of Who the Bible Says I Am in Christ."

It's not uncommon for believers to experience situations that are contrary to the truth. This sense of disconnect can stem from various challenges, such as spiritual struggles, external circumstances, or even a lack of understanding or application of biblical truths. Here are a few ideas and biblical perspectives you need to know or be reminded of that might help you navigate this experience:

Identity in Christ is Rooted in Faith, Not Feelings

• Colossians 3:3: "For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
• 2 Corinthians 5:7: "For we walk by faith, not by sight."

Your true identity in Christ is a spiritual reality that is often not immediately visible or felt. It's essential to trust in God's Word and promises rather than relying solely on feelings or visible outcomes.

Sanctification is a Process

Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ, takes time. There will be ups and downs, but God is faithful to continue His work in you, shaping you more into the likeness of Christ.

Focus on Abiding in Christ

John 15:4: "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me." Your identity in Christ becomes more evident as you learn to abide in Him. This means maintaining a close, personal relationship with Jesus through prayer, reading Scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you.

Examine Your Heart

2 Corinthians 13:5: "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?" Self-examination is a healthy practice. Consider whether there are areas of your life where you need to repent, renew your mind, or make adjustments to align more closely with God's will.

Embrace God's Grace

Romans 8:1: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." When we don't see the evidence of our identity in Christ, it’s easy to fall into self-condemnation. Remember that God's grace covers you, and He is patient and loving. Your identity in Christ is secured by His grace, not by your performance.

Walk in the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-17: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh." The evidence of being in Christ becomes more visible as you walk in the Spirit, producing the fruit of the Spirit in your life (Galatians 5:22-23). This involves daily surrender and reliance on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power to live out your faith.

Seek Encouragement and Accountability

Hebrews 10:24-25: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Sometimes we need the support and encouragement of other believers to remind us of who we are in Christ and to help us stay on the path of faith. Don't hesitate to seek fellowship and accountability from trusted friends or mentors.

Remember God’s Initiative

Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast." God’s work in your life is not solely dependent on your efforts. He is the one who initiates, sustains, and brings to completion the transformation process. Your role is to respond in trust and obedience.

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

Hebrews 12:2: "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." When you fix your eyes on Jesus rather than on your circumstances or shortcomings, you are reminded of His sufficiency and His commitment to make you into who He created you to be.

Personal Testimony

There was a time when I was faithfully going to church. I was reading the Bible. I would take time to pray. I’d make sure to honor my mother and older people. And I thought, “I’m a good Christian.” But God seemed distant and silent to me. And I thought if I just did more I could enter into His presence and experience His Peace like in the beginning.

Attending church, reading the Bible, praying, honoring others, and being generous are all commendable and essential practices of following Christ. However, religious activity can be done in your own strength and understanding, and then our identity in Christ becomes something we take credit for. At least, that's what happened to me.

Things to Consider

Here are a few things to consider that might provide clarity and encouragement:

Relationship vs. Ritual

Isaiah 29:13: "The Lord says: 'These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely “human rules” they have been taught.'" It’s possible to engage in religious practices while missing the deeper relationship with God that those practices are meant to foster. Reflect on whether your actions are flowing out of a deep love for Christ or if they have become more of a routine. God desires a heart that seeks Him above all, not just the outward expressions of faith.

Heart Posture Over Actions

Micah 6:8: "The LORD God has told us what is right and what he demands: 'See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God.'" The Christian life is not just about doing the right things but also about having the right heart posture—humility, justice, mercy, and walking closely with God. It’s important to examine not just what you do, but why you do it. Are your actions motivated by love for God and others, or are they driven by duty or a desire to earn God’s favor?

Intimacy with God

John 15:5: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing." Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining in Him—abiding in His presence. This deep, personal connection with Jesus is what fuels genuine spiritual growth and transformation. Even good deeds and religious activities can feel empty if they are not rooted in an intimate relationship with Christ.

Spiritual Fruit

Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." The evidence of being in Christ is often seen in the fruit of the Spirit—character qualities that reflect Christ’s nature. As you engage in spiritual practices, ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate this fruit in your life. It’s not just about what you do but who you are becoming in Christ.

Resting in Grace

Matthew 11:28-30: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Sometimes, the pressure to "do" can overshadow the invitation to "be" in Christ. Jesus invites you to find rest in Him, to walk with Him at His pace. Your identity in Christ is not something you earn; it’s a gift you receive by grace. Rest in that grace and allow it to transform you from the inside out.

Personal Reflection and Openness to Change

Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Invite God to search your heart and reveal if there’s anything that might be hindering a deeper relationship with Him. Be open to the possibility that He might be calling you to a new level of surrender, trust, or transformation.

Spiritual Growth is a Journey

Philippians 3:12-14: "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Remember that spiritual growth is a lifelong journey. Even the Apostle Paul acknowledged that he had not yet "arrived" but was continually pressing on toward Christ. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep pressing into your relationship with God, trusting that He is at work in you.

Seeking God’s Presence

Jeremiah 29:13: "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." God promises that when you seek Him with all your heart, you will find Him. Continue to pursue God, not just in your actions but in your heart's deepest desires. As you seek His presence, He will reveal Himself to you in more profound ways.

Potential: Another Way to Understand Your Identity in Christ

When you put your trust in Christ and were born again, you were given a new nature and a new identity in Christ. This transformation, though it may not always be fully evident at first, represents the “potential” of who God created you to "be." Here’s how this works biblically:

A New Creation with New Potential

2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" When you are born again, you become a new creation in Christ. This new identity is not just a future hope but a present reality, though its full expression may develop over time as you grow in your relationship with Christ.

Potential Rooted in Christ

Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Your potential is rooted in the fact that you are God’s handiwork, created in Christ for a purpose. This potential includes the capacity to walk in the good works God has prepared for you, living out your identity as His child.

The Ongoing Process of Sanctification

Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." When you were born again, God began a work in you. This work is ongoing—it's the process of sanctification, where you are being made more like Christ. The potential you have in Christ will continue to unfold as you yield to the Holy Spirit and grow in faith.

Walking in the Spirit to Realize Potential

Galatians 5:16: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." Realizing your potential in Christ involves walking in the Spirit. As you do so, you will increasingly exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), which reflects the character of Christ in you.

The Already and Not Yet

1 John 3:2: "Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is." There is a sense in which your identity in Christ is both an "already" and a "not yet." You are already a child of God, but the full expression of who you are in Christ will be revealed in the future. This potential is something you grow into as you live out your faith.

Potential Through God's Power

2 Peter 1:3: "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness." The potential you have in Christ is empowered by God's divine power. You have been given everything you need to live a godly life and to become who God created you to be. This potential is realized as you grow in your knowledge of Him and live in radical dependence on His guidance and provision.

Identity Based on God's Truth, Not Performance

Romans 8:29: "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters." Your identity and potential are based on God's truth and His work in your life, not on your performance. God's purpose is to conform you to the image of His Son, and this is the potential that you are growing into as you continue to walk with Him.

Faith Activates Potential

James 1:22-25: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do." Your potential in Christ is activated as you live out your faith. Hearing and knowing the truth is essential, but doing—acting on that truth—is what brings about transformation and the realization of your potential.

Summary

When you were born again, God infused you with the potential to become who He created you to be in Christ. This potential is the new life, identity, and purpose that you have in Him. While it may not be fully evident at all times, this potential is being realized as you continue to walk in faith, yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and grow in your relationship with God. Your journey as a believer is about increasingly “becoming”, through God's grace and power, who you already are in Christ.

Understanding Your Identity in Christ…

"You Are, So Be, and You’ll Do"

This phrase is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of our identity in Christ. It captures the essence of living out the Christian life, which flows from understanding who we are in Christ, being transformed by that identity, and then naturally acting in accordance with it. Here’s how each part of this phrase aligns with biblical truth:

"You Are" – Identity in Christ

2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

These verses reflect the foundational truth that your identity is rooted in who you are in Christ. When you were born again, you became a new creation, fundamentally transformed by the work of Christ. This new identity is something you possess by virtue of your union with Christ, and it defines who you are at the core.

"So Be" – Living Out Your Identity

Ephesians 4:1: "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received."

Colossians 3:12: "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

"So Be" emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with your identity in Christ. This is where the concept of sanctification comes in—the process of becoming more like Christ. It's not just knowing who you are but allowing that identity to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It's a call to authenticity, to let your true self in Christ be expressed in how you live each day.

"And You'll Do" – Actions Flow from Becoming Who God Created You to Be

John 15:5: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

James 2:17: "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." The final part of the phrase, "And you'll Do," points to the natural outflow of actions from your being. When you truly embrace who you are in Christ and live from that identity, your actions—what you "do"—will naturally reflect that reality. This is the biblical principle of bearing fruit. When you are rooted in Christ and living out your identity in Him, good works, love, service, and obedience will naturally follow as the fruit of a transformed life.

Summary

• You Are: This speaks to your identity in Christ, the unchanging truth of who you have become through faith in Him.
• So Be: This encourages you to live out that identity, letting it shape your thoughts, character, and daily choices.
• And You'll Do: This reflects the principle that right actions and fruitfulness in your life will flow naturally from being who you are in Christ.

"You Are, So Be, and You'll Do" encapsulates the Christian journey; understanding and accepting your identity in Christ ("You Are"), living in accordance with that identity ("So Be"), and then naturally fulfilling your purpose and calling through your actions ("And You'll Do"). It underscores the idea that our “doing” (actions & works) should flow from our “being” (our identity in Christ) rather than the other way around.

"By Grace, Through Faith"

Colossians 2:6-7: "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk with him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Here’s how this passage connects with our identity in Christ:

• "Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord" (You Are): This part acknowledges the foundational truth that you have received Christ and have a new identity in Him. This is the starting point—your "You Are." You've received Christ as Lord, which means your identity is now in Him. This aligns with the understanding that your new identity in Christ is the basis of everything else in your life.
• "Continue to walk in him" (So Be): Here, Paul exhorts believers to live out their lives in Christ, which aligns with "So Be." This means letting your identity in Christ influence and guide your daily life. It's about walking in accordance with who you are in Christ, being rooted and established in Him.
• "Rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught" (So Be): This part emphasizes being "rooted and built up" in Christ, which suggests a deepening and strengthening of your identity and faith. It’s about continuing to grow and mature in your relationship with Christ, allowing Him to be the foundation of everything you are and do.
• "Overflowing with thankfulness" (And You'll Do): The natural outcome of being rooted and built up in Christ, and living in Him, is a life that overflows with thankfulness. This "overflow" can be seen as the "And You'll Do" part—your actions and attitudes (like thankfulness) naturally flow from being deeply rooted in Christ. As you live out your identity, your life will produce fruit that reflects Christ's presence in you.

Connecting It All

You Are: You have received Christ Jesus as Lord, establishing your identity in Him.

So Be: Continue to live in Him, rooted and built up, letting your identity guide your life.

And You'll Do: As a result, your life will overflow with thankfulness and the fruit of living in Christ.

Just How Did We First Come to Christ?

Colossians 2:6–7 involves both God's initiative and our response in trusting and obeying Him. This understanding is perfectly aligned with the teachings of Ephesians 2:8–9, which emphasizes that our salvation and the ability to live a godly life are entirely by God's grace, but this grace calls for a response of trust and obedience.

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV): "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast."

Biblical Faith Has Two Main Parts…

1. God's Initiative (Grace)

Colossians 2:6-7 begins with the recognition that you have received Christ Jesus as Lord. This reception is itself an act of God's initiative—His grace at work in your life. God, in His grace, calls you to Himself, gives you new life in Christ, and provides everything you need to live out that life.

Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that this grace is a gift from God. Salvation and the ongoing work of sanctification are not based on our works but are the result of God’s initiative. He is the one who begins the work in us, sustains it, and brings it to completion.

2. Our Response (Faith)

Colossians 2:6-7 also speaks to our response: "continue to live your lives in him." This is where trust and obedience come into play. Your response to God’s initiative is to live in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, to be rooted and built up in Christ, and to walk in faith.

Ephesians 2:8 mentions that this grace is received through faith. Faith is not just a one-time event but an ongoing response to God's grace. As you trust in Him daily, you choose to obey His Word, live out your identity in Christ, and allow His grace to transform you.

How This Looks Practically

• Abiding in Christ (John 15:4-5): Just as a branch remains in the vine, you are called to abide in Christ. This means staying connected to Him through prayer, studying His Word, and being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. This abiding is both a response to God's initiative and the means by which you continue to grow in faith.
• Walking by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16): As you trust in God and seek to obey Him, you walk by the Spirit. This means letting the Holy Spirit guide your decisions, empower your actions, and produce the fruit of the Spirit in your life. Your role is to yield to the Spirit's leading, allowing God's initiative to shape your responses.
• Being Rooted and Built Up (Colossians 2:7): To be rooted in Christ means to establish a strong foundation in Him, primarily through His Word and through communion with Him. As you do this, you will be "built up"—strengthened in your faith and more deeply connected to Christ, which in turn enables you to live out your identity and calling.
• Obedience Out of Love (John 14:15): Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands." Obedience is the natural response to God’s love and grace. As you grow in your understanding of who God is and what He has done for you, your love for Him deepens, and obedience becomes a joyful response rather than a burdensome duty.

The Culmination of God’s Initiative and Our Response

The culmination of God’s initiative and our response is a life that overflows with thankfulness. When you recognize that everything you have—salvation, growth, and even the ability to obey—comes from God’s grace, your heart naturally overflows with gratitude. This thankfulness is both an attitude and an action, influencing how you live and interact with others.

Summary

• God's Initiative: He provides the grace for salvation, growth, and the power to live out your faith. This is His work in you, which begins with your new identity in Christ.
• Our Response: Trusting in God and responding with obedience. You "continue to live your lives in Him" by being rooted in Christ, walking by the Spirit, and letting your life reflect the transformation God is working in you.
• Result: A life of faith, obedience, and thankfulness that reflects who you are in Christ and glorifies God.

By understanding and embracing both God's initiative and our response, we can truly live out the fullness of what Colossians 2:6-7 and Ephesians 2:8-9 teach, growing in Christ and becoming who God has created us to be.

When It Comes to “God’s Strategic Will”

The idea is that your life in Christ should be a continual process of living out the identity you have received, resulting in a life that naturally produces the fruit of the Spirit and reflects the character of Christ. This makes the "You Are, So Be, and You'll Do" concept a practical and powerful way to understand and live out your faith.