Who do you say?

Matthew 16:15, “’But what about you?’ he (Jesus) asked, ‘Who do you say I am?’”

The apostles only similarities with one another were that the majority of them were fishermen from Galilee before following Jesus. It was following Jesus that gave them a new identity. Those with whom they came into contact would recognize them as someone who had been with Jesus.

What distinguishes us today from anyone else in our community? The only real distinguishing factor must be that we have been with Jesus. The more we are with Him we begin to think, act, serve and love like Him. Our identity changes. Our old way of living fades away and a new way of living takes us to a new destiny.

The new identity begins with the surrender of our lives to God and is expressed in water baptism, communion, and connection with the body of Christ. It continues with growth in our lives as we take on the disciplines and character of Christ. It is complete when we graduate into the next life time – eternity – with Him.

Identity change is always challenging – ask the butterfly. Yet the struggle is well worth the effort – Keep the faith!