Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. —II Corinthians 5:17

In Christ, we are not defined by our old

At the heart of the Christmas message is the fact that

I. Gift #1 I am accepted!

All Bible Verses

• A. I am God’s child – John 1:12
• B. I am Christ’s friend – John 15:15
• C. I am united with the Lord – I Corinthians 6:17
• D. I am a member of Christ’s body – I Corinthians 12:27
• E. I am a saint – Ephesians 1:1
• F. I am adopted by God – Ephesians 1:5
• G. I have direct access to God – Ephesians 2:18
• H. I have been redeemed/forgiven by God – Colossians 1:14
• I. I am complete in Christ – Colossians 2:10
  

II. Gift #2 I am secure!

All Bible Verses

• A. I have been justified – Romans 5:1
• B. I am free from condemnation – Romans 8:1-2
• C. I am assured of God’s good plan – Romans 8:28
• D. I am free of the charges against me – Romans 8:31-34
• E. I cannot be separated from God’s love – Romans 8:35-39
• F. I am established, anointed, and sealed by God – II Corinthians 1:21-22
• G. I am confident that the good work that has begun will be perfected – Philippians 1:6
• H. I am a citizen of heaven – Philippians 3:20
• I. I have been given power, love, and a sound mind – II Timothy 1:7
• J. I have grace and mercy in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
• K. I am protected from the Evil One – I John 5:18
  

III. Gift #3 I am significant!

All Bible Verses

• A. I am salt and light to the earth – Matthew 5:13-14
• B. I am a branch of the true vine of Christ – John 15:1-5
• C. I have been chosen to bear fruit – John 15:16
• D. I am a personal witness of Christ – Acts 1:8
• E. I am God’s temple – I Corinthians 3:16
• F. I am a minister of reconciliation – II Corinthians 5:17-21
• G. I am God’s co-worker – II Corinthians 6:1
• H. I am seated with Christ in heaven – Ephesians 2:6
• I. I am God’s workmanship – Ephesians 2:10
• J. I may approach God with freedom and confidence – Ephesians 3:12
• K. I can do all things in Christ’s strength – Philippians 4:13
  

Christ’s birth made our new identity

Small Group Questions

1. What did God teach you through this passage and sermon? Share the work of God in your heart with the group.

2. What questions did this passage and sermon raise in your mind?

3. What are some hindrances we face in living out our new identity in Christ?

4. Share together what aspects of our new identity are the most meaningful to you and why.