Your New Identity
Scripture: “Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.” – Colossians 2:12 (ESV)
Main Point: Understanding your baptismal identity changes everything about how you see yourself and live your life.
Baptism isn’t just an outward ceremony—it’s the public declaration of an inner reality. When you went under the water, you weren’t just getting wet; you were acting out the most fundamental truth about your new identity: you died and rose again with Christ.
This means the “old you”—defined by sin, shame, fear, and spiritual death—is gone. Not improved, not reformed, not given a second chance. Dead and buried. The “new you” has been raised to life with Christ, sharing in His victory, His righteousness, His relationship with the Father.
Your baptism is more defining than your birth certificate, more significant than your resume, more lasting than any label others might put on you. It declares that you are God’s beloved child, joint heir with Christ, temple of the Holy Spirit, ambassador of the kingdom.
When guilt over past failures haunts you, remember: that person who committed those sins was buried with Christ. When inadequacy whispers that you’re not qualified for God’s service, remember: you’ve been raised to new life with all of Christ’s resources available to you. When fear suggests you can’t handle what’s ahead, remember: the same power that conquered death lives in you.
This identity can’t be earned through good behavior or lost through poor performance. It’s yours by divine decree, sealed by the Holy Spirit, guaranteed by Christ’s finished work. Nothing you do can make God love you more; nothing you fail to do can make Him love you less.
Reflection: How would embracing your baptismal identity change the way you approach today’s challenges and opportunities?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible reality of my new identity in Christ. When I’m tempted to define myself by my past or my performance, remind me that I am buried and raised with Your Son. Help me live today from this glorious truth. Amen.
Responses