Identity

Our external behaviors, actions and accomplishments are what much of the world uses to judge us. In many cases, outsiders’ opinions shape our identity. In this episode of the Things Above podcast, James Bryan Smith explores the unhealthy ways our identity is shaped and offers another way to understand our identity – a life that is in Christ. The world says our identity is determined by our behavior, leading to a host of problems. Unless we are directly affirmed for who we are and not what we do, we cannot withstand criticism, no matter how well intended. But when our life is in Christ, our identity guides our behavior. In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he starts the third chapter by explaining our identity in Christ: 1If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. You see, for followers of Jesus, we are going to appear with him in glory – not because of what we’ve done but because of who we are. Paul spent a considerable amount of time explaining this in his letters to the Romans (chapter 6), 1 Corinthians (chapter 1), and Ephesians (chapters 1-3). At the end of Ephesians 3, Paul offers up a glorious prayer that affirms our identity in Christ (v.14-21). Immediately afterwards, he urges us to live a life worthy of the calling we’ve received. This week, you’re invited to set your minds on this glorious thought: Identity before behavior.