“Overcoming Identity Theft” | June 13

Elyria Church of the Nazarene

Sunday, June 13, 2021

“Overcoming Identity Theft” 

 (Clearly Knowing Who I Am In Christ)

John 10:10  10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

When we are secure in who we are in Christ it builds our faith and ability to overcome life’s obstacles!

“The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior will begin to reflect your true identity.”   (Neil T. Anderson)

1 Identity Assurance

Galatians 2:20  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.  (NIV)

 Isaiah 43:1-3a  1But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.  (NIV)

I John 5:13  13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God [which represents all that Jesus Christ is and does], so that you will know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have eternal life.  (Amplified Bible)

John 1:12  12 But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name—  (Amplified Bible) 

Romans 8:14-17  14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 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.  (NIV)

The evidence is overwhelming! We need not question our identity in Christ!

Life’s experiences can sometimes wear us down and we question or doubt where our standing in Christ. It is important in such moments to worship the Lord in praise, prayer, and in the Word. Self declaration of who I am in Christ Jesus breaks down doubt and discouragement. 

By God’s grace we can live secure in the fact that we are His!  Every promise and attribute of God impacts our lives! This strengthens our desire and resolve to live fully devoted to Jesus Christ!

Joshua 3:5  5 Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.”

2 Identity Protection

Ephesians 6:10-17  10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace  16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can 

17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Paul calls the Devil's work against believers "schemes." This indicates a coordinated plan of attack against believers. It is clear Paul does not have in mind physical violence, but rather a spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:12). Further, the Devil appears to specifically seek to destroy the good work of all believers. Thankfully, his power is no match for the power available through God. However, believers must pray and fully rely on God's resources to stand firm (Ephesians 6:13) against his attacks.  Bibleref.com

3 Identity Empowerment

Exodus 33:14  14 The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (NIV)

Psalm 16:11  You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. (NIV)

Matthew 18:2020 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (NIV)

“God’s manifest presence is the great fact. This we are to seek, to tarry for, and undertake nothing without.”

P.F. Bresee