Brad Alles

In our divisive culture today, one’s identity either joins or separates us from others. The culture focuses on race, class, or gender. For Christians, our identity is grounded in Christ. Even as all humans are creations of God, Christians are born again (or born from above in Greek) by the Holy Spirit (John 3: 3). Because we are now children of God, we are new creations. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” Instead of focusing on race, class, or gender, we focus on becoming more Christ-like.

Our identity in Christ provides perspective on all other aspects of ourselves. Because we identify with Christ first and foremost, we strive to become more like Him. This is what any disciple would do–they seek to be more like their rabbi. In Luke 6:40, Jesus says, “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.”

As we continue to grow spiritually, our other aspects (biological sex, ethnicity, income level, etc.) are not negated. For example, I am still a White, middle class, male in America. But these are put in their proper perspective. I do not boast about being any of those. I only boast about Jesus’ mercy in my life. 2 Corinthians 10:17 says, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”

Here is another example of perspective. James 1:9-11 says, “Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.” Notice that believers are either rich or poor in this section. But their income level does not define them alone. They are followers of Jesus primarily, so all are spiritually rich while they vary in earthly riches. Moreover, their earthly riches may fade, but those who trust in the Lord will be saved.