What do you believe about who you are?
"For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him so the body of sin might be brought to nothing so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin." Romans 6 5-7
In counseling, one of my greatest joys is having Bible studies with my clients. One of my favorite New Testament books to teach is Paul's letter to the Romans. Romans is very helpful in helping our clients understand what the Bible teaches regarding their identity in Christ.
In Romans chapter six, there is no greater description of the reality of the transformational Gospel of Jesus Christ and the new life we possess in Christ!
What do you believe about who you are? How do you define yourself? Do you acknowledge your new nature? Do you define yourself through the old self?
The deception that leads to bondage and defeat is based on this reasoning.
1. I focus on the sinful behavior in my life to fight it, but it overcomes me, and I feel defeated.
2. I understand that because I am still a sinner.
3. I base my identity on how my flesh performs.
4. I resign myself to a life-long struggle of trying to do what I should.
5. I believe that my old self is very much alive and active.
6. I lose hope and live in bondage and defeat.
What Paul teaches the church regarding our freedom and victory!
1. I know that my old self (sin nature) was crucified, that the body of sin is destroyed. Romans 6:6
2. I appropriate my co-crucifixion and co-resurrection and Christ in my life. Romans 6:5
3. I realize my true identity as a new creation in Christ; I am righteous, holy, and blameless. Ephesians 4:24
4. I understand that the world, Satan, and my flesh has no authority because I am dead to sin. Romans 6:14
5. I reckon myself dead to sin and alive to God, and I live in the truth of my new identity. Romans 6:11
6. I walk in the liberty and freedom that comes from Jesus Christ! Romans 6:17,18
I encourage you to evaluate your understanding and application of the resurrected life you have in Christ. Share the good news with someone you love!