Finding Your Identity in Christ: Moving Beyond Spiritual Performance

In the Gospel of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ temptation, the devil says two times, “If you are the Son of God….” (4.3, 6). But Jesus refused to do what the devil asked, not because he was not the Son of God but because he did not have to prove that to the devil; the devil already knew that truth.

People often try to establish that they are competent, smart, and successful. They dress, adorn, and display their possessions to prove their wealth, influence, and power. Our gait, expressions, and apparel may inadvertently betray our identity; we cannot avoid that.

However, the most dangerous temptation is the urge to prove that we are spiritually noteworthy. In modern times, this temptation has plagued many Christians, from simple believers to preachers. They try to prove their false spiritual status through claims of miracles (including the raising of the dead) and oratorical skills. Many rise as meteors and descend to the abyss when the glow is gone.

What we are in Christ is a matter that God and we alone know. However, it is evident to the world through our Christ-like character as we impact hearts within our reach and usher in the rule of God.

Making efforts to prove who we are in Christ is devilish. However, believers should listen to the voice of the indwelling Holy Spirit, who continually whispers to them that they are God’s children and that God is their father (Rom 8:15). This assurance renders all facades redundant.

“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15).

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