Galatians 2:20-21
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.”
The question, “How do you identify?” is ever-present in our post-Christian culture as what was once taken at face value is now less so. But in a general sense, how we identify is an important question to nail down. It gets to the root of our narrative. Our narrative is what we tell ourselves about ourselves. Our self-identity is the filter through which we measure and make sense of the world around us. We might find our identity in our heritage, our nationality, race, sexual orientation, religious affiliation or political party. We might find our identity through something that we’ve done or that has been done to us.
Paul found his identity in Christ. This narrative of identifying with Christ was all-encompassing, to the point that he had to empty himself to make room. He saw his life as no longer his own. He had exchanged his anemic, temporal, and mundane desires and ambitions for something incomparably greater. The “gift” he was willing to give compared to the gift that Christ offered through love and sacrifice would be similar to swapping roadkill for a mansion.
When we find our identity in Christ, we can experience a life full of love, generosity, freedom, and grace. Why would we ever choose to spurn such a gift for some broken thing we might duct tape together on our own? How do I identify? I’m with Him.
While using the HEAR method (see below) consider the following questions:
- What are various ways that you might identify and how do they shape your perspective? (ie. a southerner, an only child, a widow, a millionaire, a veteran)
- If you identify with Christ, what are some results you’ve experienced through living this narrative? Consider sharing in the comments below.
Highlight – what words or phrases jump out at you?
Explain – what does the passage mean?
Apply – how does the passage intersect with your life today?
Respond – how is God leading you to respond?
Today’s post is by Jon Price, Associate Pastor
