Today, I am excited to delve into a topic that lies at the heart of our faith—our new creation identity in Jesus. As believers, understanding who we are in Christ can radically transform how we live and perceive our daily lives. In this post, we will explore what it means to have a new identity in Christ and how this shapes our understanding of the Bible through a Jesus-centered hermeneutic. We’ll particularly focus on the powerful impact of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and how it provides a lens for interpreting the rest of Scripture.
The Impact of Missing Information
To start, it’s important to acknowledge that our identity as Christians is often influenced by not just misinformation but also the absence of crucial information. For instance, how frequently do we discuss the significant roles of women in the Bible? Sheila Gregoire and her team at the Bare Marriage podcast highlight the often-overlooked women in Scripture, shedding light on their stories and contributions.
Celebrating Remarkable Mothers in the New Testament
As we recently celebrated Mother’s Day, it’s fitting to reflect on some remarkable mothers in the New Testament. While we frequently hear about Lois and Eunice, Timothy’s mother and grandmother, there are other noteworthy figures:
- Mary, the mother of Jesus: Often highlighted during Christmas, Mary’s faith and obedience are central to our understanding of Jesus’ birth and early life. Jesus could have appeared in any manner, yet God chose for Him to come into this world through Mary, demonstrating the profound role of women in God’s redemptive plan.
- Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist: Her miraculous pregnancy prepared the way for Jesus, emphasizing the significance of her role in the nativity narrative.
- Salome: Known for her bold request to Jesus for her sons’ prominent positions in His kingdom, Salome illustrates a mother’s advocacy and faith.
- The Canaanite Woman: Featured in Matthew 15 and Mark 7, her unwavering faith and persistence in seeking Jesus’ help for her demon-possessed daughter, despite initial rebuffs, resulted in Jesus commending her faith and healing her daughter.
Embracing Our New Creation Identity
Recognizing these women and their stories helps shape our new creation identity in Christ. In this light, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount becomes a crucial guide. This sermon provides a framework for living out our faith, emphasizing the attitudes and behaviors that align with our new identity in Him.
Cultural Aspects of Identity
It’s also important to consider how cultural aspects influence our identity. The modern concept of “empty nest syndrome,” for example, highlights how our roles evolve over time. A fascinating insight from Dr. Carmen Imes in her book “Bearing God’s Image” differentiates between being made in God’s image and bearing His name. This distinction underscores our responsibility to live out our renewed identity as the people of God—not as a means to earn salvation, but as a reflection of the transformation within us.
Living Out Our Renewed Identity
In conclusion, embracing our new creation identity in Christ involves understanding and celebrating the diverse roles and stories within the Bible. It requires viewing Scripture through the lens of Jesus’ teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount. This approach not only enriches our faith but also empowers us to live out our renewed identity with purpose and clarity.
Let’s continue this journey together, embracing our roles, understanding our worth, and living out our faith with renewed vigor and conviction.