As Christians, we are called to live authentic lives that reflect our faith in Jesus Christ. However, in a world that often values performance and perfection, it can be easy to fall into the trap of presenting a façade rather than being true to who we are. That's why I am excited to introduce this series on Christ-centered authenticity. Through this series, we will explore what it means to live authentically as followers of Christ and how we can embrace our identity in Him.
Our Identity in Christ
In Colossians 1:3-9, the apostle Paul writes to the church in Colossae, expressing his thankfulness for their faith and love for Christ. He goes on to remind them of their identity in Him, saying, We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven (Colossians 1:3-5, NIV). As we begin our series on Christ-centered authenticity, it's important to start with our identity in Him. When we understand who we are in Christ, we can begin to live authentically and confidently as His followers.
Embracing Our Imperfections
Living authentically doesn't mean being perfect. In fact, it means embracing our imperfections and weaknesses and allowing Christ to work in and through us. Paul writes, We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way (Colossians 1:9-10a, NIV). When we rely on Christ's strength and wisdom rather than our own, we can live authentically and please Him in every way.
Living Out Our Faith
Finally, living authentically as followers of Christ means living out our faith in practical ways. Paul writes, bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience (Colossians 1:10b-11, NIV). Through this series, we will explore how we can bear fruit in every good work, grow in our knowledge of God, and be strengthened to endure and persevere in our faith.
As we embark on this series on Christ-centered authenticity, let's remember our identity in Christ, embrace our imperfections, and live out our faith in practical ways. May we be encouraged to live authentically as His followers and bring glory to Him in all that we do.
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