Every day, we face a spiritual battle. It’s not just about good versus evil in the world. It’s a battle for our very identity. In a world that constantly pressures us to define ourselves by appearance, success, or popularity, it’s easy to forget who we truly are. The Bible powerfully reveals our identity in Christ: we are “called, chosen, and faithful.”
The world, with its alluring promises and fleeting pleasures, constantly tries to shape our self-perception. But amidst this chaos, there’s a voice calling out to us, reminding us of who we truly are.
Revelation 17:14 declares that those who belong to Jesus are “called, chosen, and faithful.” These three traits are the defining features of those who follow Christ. This truth gives us purpose, security, and hope, even in the most uncertain times. Knowing our identity in Christ changes everything. It redefines our worth, our mission, and even how we respond to life’s challenges.
Understanding Our Identity in Christ
The world tells us we’re defined by our achievements, appearance, or social status. God, however, sees us differently. He doesn’t look at our external qualities or accomplishments. Instead, He sees us through the lens of His love and the sacrifice of His Son.
The Bible teaches that our identity is found not in ourselves or in what we achieve but in Jesus Christ. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This new identity in Christ means we no longer define ourselves by past mistakes, societal expectations, or achievements. Instead, we are defined by what God has done for us through Christ.
Called: The Foundation of Our Identity in Christ
Being “called” means God has personally invited you into His family. It’s not because of anything you’ve done, but because of His grace. Being called means God took the initiative. He didn’t wait for us to clean up our act or prove ourselves worthy. This calling is both a privilege and a responsibility.
Paul explains this calling in Romans 8:30:
“And those whom He predestined, He also called; and those whom He called, He also justified; and those whom He justified, He also glorified.”
In 2 Timothy 2:9, Paul tells Timothy that God “has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” God’s calling sets us apart for something greater than ourselves. God calls us to be His own, to walk in His ways, and to reflect His character in a world that desperately needs Him.
Understanding God’s Call
Understanding God’s call goes deeper than just a role or a task; it shapes our identity, transforming who we are at the core. Our calling isn’t merely about what we do; it’s about becoming the person God has purposed us to be. Each aspect of our calling speaks to a part of this identity, giving us a richer understanding of who we are in Christ. Let’s explore these beautiful aspects of God’s calling on our lives:
Called Out of Darkness (1 Peter 2:9)
In 1 Peter 2:9, we are described as being “called out of darkness into His marvelous light.” This calling is a rescue—God has reached into the shadows where we once lived and drawn us into the light of His presence. No longer are we defined by sin, shame, or the burdens of our past. Instead, our identity is now rooted in being part of a people who belong to God, chosen to declare His praises. We live in the light, not because of anything we’ve done, but because God has called us out, transforming our lives through His grace.
Called to Be Saints (Romans 1:7)
When Paul writes to the Romans, he addresses them as those who are “called to be saints.” Being called a saint is more than a title; it’s a declaration of who we are in Christ. A saint is someone set apart, made holy by God’s work in us through Christ. This isn’t something we achieve by our own efforts; it’s a gift we receive. We’re called to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness—not perfectly, but purposefully. Embracing our calling as saints means that our lives become a testimony of God’s transforming power, living as people who are made new.
Called Into Fellowship (1 Corinthians 1:9)
One of the most profound aspects of our calling is that we are called into fellowship with Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 1:9, Paul reminds us that God has invited us into a close, personal relationship with His Son. This fellowship isn’t a distant association; it’s intimate and constant. We are called to walk with Jesus daily, to listen to Him, to share our hearts, and to grow in our relationship with Him. Fellowship with Christ transforms us from the inside out, shaping our character, desires, and purpose. It’s a reminder that our calling is relational at its core—God calls us to Himself, not just to a task.
Called to Peace (Colossians 3:15)
Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.” Our calling in Christ brings us into a peace that transcends circumstances. God calls us to live as people who have found rest and wholeness in Him. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it’s the presence of God’s reassurance in our lives, giving us stability and confidence regardless of what we face. As people called to peace, we are also called to share that peace with others, bringing a calming presence and reconciling love to a world in turmoil.
Reflection: How Does Being Called Shape Your Life?
- Do you see yourself as someone called by God? How might this perspective change your daily choices?
- Are there areas of your life where you struggle to align with God’s calling?
Chosen: God’s Purposeful Selection
Think about this: before the foundation of the world, God chose you. That’s what Ephesians 1:4 tells us:
“Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.”
This choice wasn’t based on our merit but on His unchanging love and purpose. Being “chosen” means we are valued and loved by God—not because of anything we have done but simply because He delights in us. To be chosen means that we belong to God and that our relationship with Him is secure. We don’t have to worry about losing His love or proving our worth. Just as a parent chooses to love their child unconditionally, God’s choice is rooted in His deep, abiding love for us.
God chose us not only to be loved but also to fulfill His purpose. Colossians 3:12 reminds us, “as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Being chosen calls us to live in a way that reflects His character.
Living as God’s Chosen People
Our identity in Christ as God’s chosen people brings both incredible privileges and meaningful responsibilities. To be chosen by God means that He has set us apart for Himself, not only for our benefit but to fulfill His purposes. In Christ, our identity as God’s chosen people means we are set apart to fulfill His plans in the world. Let’s look at what it means to live as those chosen by God:
Chosen for a Purpose (1 Peter 2:9-10)
In 1 Peter 2:9-10, we read that we are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Being chosen by God is never aimless; it’s always for a purpose. Having our identity in Christ means we are set apart to declare His goodness and reflect His light to the world. This purpose involves both our words and actions, showing others who God is by living as people transformed by His grace. When we grasp that we’ve been chosen for a reason, our lives take on new meaning and direction, leading us to serve God and others wholeheartedly.
Chosen to Bear Fruit (John 15:16)
In John 15:16, Jesus tells His disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” Being chosen by God is a call to fruitfulness. Our lives are meant to make a lasting impact, filled with the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This fruitfulness reflects God’s character and draws others to Him. As His chosen people, we aren’t just here to pass through life; we’re here to cultivate a life that reflects God’s love and truth, bearing fruit that endures.
Chosen to Know God Intimately (John 15:15)
Jesus also says in John 15:15, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” To be chosen by God is to be brought into an intimate relationship with Him, where we are known, loved, and called His friends.
This intimacy is one of the greatest privileges of being God’s chosen people. We’re not kept at a distance but are welcomed into the heart of God’s plans and purposes. Through Christ, we are invited to know God deeply, learning from Him and experiencing His presence in a way that transforms us from the inside out.
Chosen to Represent Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20)
Finally, as God’s chosen people, we are chosen to represent Christ to the world. In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul writes, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” This responsibility is both humbling and powerful. As Christ’s ambassadors, we are called to live in a way that reflects His character and truth. We are representatives of His love, grace, and hope, sharing the good news of reconciliation with those around us. This calling is a daily reminder that our lives are not our own; they are to be lived as a witness to Christ.
Reflection: Embracing Your Chosen Identity in Christ
- How does knowing you are chosen by God impact your sense of worth?
- What are ways you can live out the purpose God has chosen you for?
Faithful: Living Out Our Identity in Christ
Being faithful is how we respond to God’s calling and choosing. To be “faithful” is to remain committed and loyal to Christ, regardless of our circumstances. In Luke 16:10, Jesus says, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” Faithfulness begins with small, daily choices and grows into a life that reflects our trust and loyalty to God.
Faithfulness isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about consistently returning to God with a heart committed to Him, even in the face of setbacks. Picture faithfulness like a marathon, not a sprint—it’s a steady, lifelong journey where every step matters. It’s marked by persistence, resilience, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when challenges arise. Faithful believers aren’t flawless, but they are steadfast, continually trusting in God’s promises and striving to follow His ways.
Here are some key characteristics of faithful believers:
Steadfast Commitment (1 Corinthians 15:58)
In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul encourages believers to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” Faithfulness means holding firm to our commitment to God and His purposes, regardless of changing circumstances or shifting cultural pressures. A steadfast believer remains rooted in God’s truth, unshaken by adversity or temptation. This commitment gives us strength, knowing that our efforts in God’s kingdom are not in vain.
Trustworthy Stewardship (1 Corinthians 4:2)
Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 4:2 that “it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.” Faithfulness involves handling what God has entrusted to us—our time, talents, resources, and relationships—with integrity and care. Trustworthy stewardship reflects a heart that values God’s gifts, using them not for personal gain but to honor Him. Faithful believers are reliable and responsible, managing what God has given in a way that reflects His priorities.
Enduring Perseverance (Revelation 2:10)
In Revelation 2:10, Jesus encourages the church to “be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Faithfulness calls for endurance—a willingness to persevere, even under trial. Faithful believers hold on to their commitment, despite hardship, trusting that God’s promises are worth any struggle. This perseverance is fueled by hope, knowing that God rewards those who remain faithful to Him. Through endurance, believers show that their faith is not fleeting; it’s deeply anchored in God’s unchanging character.
Consistent Obedience (John 14:15)
Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Faithfulness is demonstrated through obedience—a consistent choice to follow God’s guidance, even when it’s hard or unpopular. This obedience is not driven by obligation but by love for Christ. Faithful believers prioritize God’s will, seeking to live according to His Word as a response to His love. Through obedience, faithfulness becomes visible, as we choose to live in a way that aligns with God’s desires.
Reflection: Practicing Faithfulness Daily
- In what areas of your life do you feel challenged to remain faithful?
- How can you build habits that strengthen your faithfulness to Christ?
Living Out Your Identity in Christ: Called, Chosen, and Faithful
Understanding our identity in Christ as called, chosen, and faithful empowers us to live confidently. This identity is unshakable, even when life feels uncertain. When we know who we are in Christ, we can approach each day with purpose, knowing that our lives have eternal significance.
Practical Steps to Embrace Your Identity in Christ
- Meditate on Scripture: Make it a habit to reflect on verses that affirm your identity in Christ, such as Revelation 17:14, Ephesians 1:4, and 1 Peter 2:9.
- Pray with Purpose: Ask God to deepen your understanding of what it means to be called, chosen, and faithful.
- Seek Community: Surround yourself with others who remind you of your true identity in Christ and encourage you to live it out.
- Serve with Love: Embrace your calling by serving others, reflecting the love and purpose of God in your life.
- Hold on to Hope: Let your identity in Christ give you hope during difficult times. Remember, Jesus is victorious, and our future is secure.
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