The identity and mission of a Christian is so seldom lived to the full. The reason is that so few fully accept it. We consider ourselves as “just a church member” or define ourselves by our past or our weaknesses. How does Jesus define us and what is the identity that He wants us to accept and live out? I find statements of our new identity in Christ almost every day in the Bible. A few of my favorites and some of the most challenging statements of our identity are found in Matthew 4:18-22; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20.

• Fisher of Men – Matthew 4:19
• Disciple Maker – Matthew 28:19
• Persuader of People – 2 Corinthians 5:16
• New Creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Reconciled – 2 Corinthians 5:18
• Messenger of Reconciliation – 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
• Ambassador of Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:20
• Righteousness of God – 2 Corinthians 5:21

These statements of identity speak to the task and the mission that God has laid out for us. We are to be about…

• Finding and catching people
• Teaching people how to follow Jesus
• Persuading people
• Sharing the message that leads to a right relationship with God
• Representing God before the world

Are you living as “just a church member”? Does your past or weaknesses define you, more than the mission of God? If you are a Christian, Jesus has decided that He wants to use you, to shape you, to empower you. Say yes to Jesus’ call and take up this new identity.

Questions:

• What are things that have defined you in your life?
• How have you been shaped by the mission of God?
• Who are people in your life that you know live out the identity that Jesus desires?
• Have you said yes to Jesus? Are you ready for Him to re-define your life as a Disciple Maker?
• Who around you lives out the identity of a disciple maker every day?