Identity (Part 1): Sons & Daughters

Outline

1. Our Story from the Beginning: God defines who we are as being made in His image, but Satan tempts us to believe that what God says is not enough - we have to do something in order to be like Him.
2. In Ephesians 2 we learn that our past identity was that we were spiritually dead, but now we are spiritually alive and “dearly loved children.” (Eph. 5:1)
3. In Romans 8 we learn that we were changed from a spirit of slavery into full adoption by God as our Father. (Romans 8:14-17)
4. When we know God as our Heavenly Father, we not only have an identity of security with Him, but an identity of security among other people.
5. The main key to receiving our new identity as sons and daughters of God is to spend time with God.

Discussion Questions

1. What comes to mind when you hear the word “Father”? (Good or bad)
2. How might the names we use when addressing God change the dynamic of our relationship with Him (like God, Lord, or Father)?
3. How do you think embracing our identity from God as sons and daughter, and He as our Father will change the way we live?
4. Looking at the Orphans VS Children chart, which of these come easiest to you? Which do you find the most difficult?
5. Ephesians 4:22-24 says that we should “put on the new self” by “renewing the spirit of our minds.” What are some ways we can do that in everyday life?
6. Prayer - Is there anything you’d like us to pray for as a group? (Any praises or concerns?)

Orphan VS Child of God Table

Orphan

Feels alone. Lacks a vital daily intimacy with God. Is full of self-concern.
Anxious over felt needs: relationships, money, health. “I’m all alone and nobody cares. I’m not a happy camper.”
Feels condemned, guilty, and unworthy before God and others.
Feels uncomfortable calling God “Father” when praying. Going to God in prayer is a last resort.
The Bible’s promises of spiritual power and joy are empty.
Avoids spending time with God.
Lacks passion to share the gospel. The Christian life isn’t experienced as good news.
Seeks satisfaction in physical pleasure.
Insecure in relationships. Concerned about being left out or neglected.
Always feels like “the sky is falling.”
Has a hard time giving thanks or praising God.
Is often defensive when sensing criticism. Often goes into protection mode.

Child of God

Has a growing assurance that “God is really my loving heavenly Father.”
Trusts the Father and has a growing confidence in His loving care. Is being freed from worry.
Feels loved, forgiven, and totally accepted because Christ’s merit really clothes them.
Calls God “Father” or “Dad” in prayer. Turns to God in prayer first in times of need.
God’s transforming power and joy are regular experiences.
Enjoys spending time with God.
Loves talking about Jesus. The gospel is experienced as good news here and now.
Satisfied in God’s love.
Content in relationships. Able to focus on others rather than self.
Trusts God will provide for every need.
Finds numerous reasons to rejoice in God from a good meal to a sunny day.
Doesn’t fear criticism because well-acquainted with both sin and grace. Knows God is protector.