The Transformed Life

Identity in Christ: Living Transformed Lives

Bible Passage: Colossians 3:9-11

Summary: In these verses, Paul urges the believers in Colossae to put off their old self and embrace their new identity in Christ. This transformation is not just personal but also communal, as it transcends social and cultural barriers, emphasizing unity in Christ.

Application: This passage helps teens understand the importance of their identity in Christ, encouraging them to reject negative self-perceptions and societal labels while fostering inclusivity and acceptance within their communities. As they navigate adolescence, they can find strength in their new identity and make choices that reflect their values as followers of Christ.

Teaching: The sermon highlights the significance of spiritual transformation and the collective identity believers share through their faith in Christ. It teaches the importance of shedding former ways and living in a manner that reflects the grace and love of Jesus.

How this passage could point to Christ: The verses in Colossians point to Christ as the cornerstone of our identity. He has broken down dividing walls and created a new humanity, indicating that all believers, regardless of background, are one in Him, a theme that is echoed throughout Scripture.

Big Idea: Our true identity is found in Christ, and as we embrace this identity, we are called to live transformed lives that reflect His love and grace to the world around us.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the cultural context of the Colossian church using your Logos library to better understand the significance of Paul's message. Look into the themes of identity and community in early Christianity, focusing on how they relate to present-day issues facing teens. Delve into different translations of the text and examine the implications of terms like 'new self' and 'image of its creator' for deeper application in your sermon.

1. Discard Deceptive Ways

Colossians 3:9 ESV

Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices

You could emphasize the importance of honesty and integrity as key components of our identity in Christ. Encourage teens to discard the old self that may rely on deceit or false appearances and to embrace transparency and authenticity as they live out their faith. This shift helps them form genuine relationships and strengthen their witness.

Throw off the old man

Talk about my grandpa and his old clothes

Romans 6:6 ESV

We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.

Some of you are living still as the old man

Nothing has changed

The old man is only sin filled

There’s a picture I think of and it’s a old rusty car. Ruined on the inside, it’s stinky everywhere.

It’s not that you fix this car up and make it nice, no you send this to the junk yard and you go to the dealership and get a brand new car. This is what God has done for us. He didn’t just replace us. We’re a new person

There’s a disctint difference.

2. The New Self

Colossians 3:10

Perhaps unpack how putting on the 'new self' means embracing growth and renewal through knowledge of Christ. Encourage teens to constantly seek a deeper understanding of Jesus, encouraging them to explore their faith and experience continuous transformation that aligns with their identity in Him.

There is a progression in the conquering in the flesh

There’s a bay and it grows - and it looks like there father or mother

In the Image of the Creator

It’s God’s plan to make us like Christ, by renewed in knowledge after the image of it’s creator.

It’s a process of knowledge

The Word makes you grow, like as you eat you grow

You’re renewed under knowledge

You’ll be Christ like, it won’t happen until we’re with Him

3. Unite Beyond Boundaries

Colossians 3:11

Highlight how unity in Christ dissolves cultural and social divisions, fostering inclusivity and acceptance. Encourage teens to transcend societal labels and embrace a community where equality and love flourish. This unity reflects the heart of the Gospel and manifests Christ's presence in their lives.

No racism no different values we’re in this togther

We should have more in common with an Iranian Christian that is 70 that a high school student in your age

In Christ there is a new family

This youth group is your family but guess what your brothers and sisters are the church on Sunday, and you have a role to play in this family.

Equality becomes Christ is in all