How can we embrace our God-given identity like Peter? A Fresh Identity from Jesus Mark 3:16: “He appointed the Twelve: to Simon He gave the name Peter.” • Simon meets Jesus, and in one sentence everything changes. • “Peter” (petros, rock) is not a nickname—it’s Jesus’ declaration of what Simon will become. • John 1:42 echoes the moment: “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which means Peter). • Our identity, like Peter’s, is defined by Christ’s word, not by past failures, family history, or public opinion. Believing What He Says about Us • Matthew 16:18: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church.” • 2 Corinthians 5:17: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Faith means agreeing with God’s assessment, even when feelings lag behind. • We resist the enemy’s labels (John 10:10) by rehearsing God’s description of us—chosen, forgiven, beloved. Growing into the Name • Peter did not instantly act rock-solid. He sank in the waves (Matthew 14:30), argued with the Lord (Matthew 16:22), and denied Him (Mark 14:71). • Jesus’ word over Peter was larger than Peter’s weaknesses; the same is true for us. • Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Relying on Grace, Not Grit • After the resurrection, Jesus restores Peter three times (John 21:15-17), proving that grace, not performance, secures identity. • Acts 4:13 notes that Peter’s courage came because “they had been with Jesus.” Presence with Christ fuels faithfulness. Living the Identity Out Loud • 1 Peter 2:9: “You are a chosen people… that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you.” Practical steps: – Speak Scripture over yourself daily. – Serve the body of Christ; gifts flourish when exercised (1 Peter 4:10). – Refuse comparison; God fashioned you uniquely (Ephesians 2:10). Expecting Continued Transformation • Revelation 2:17 promises a “new name” still to come—identity unfolds eternally. • Each step of obedience shapes us into the person Jesus already sees. Quick Recap 1. Jesus names us according to His purpose. 2. We choose to believe His word above all others. 3. Growth is a process sustained by grace. 4. Time with Jesus empowers us to stand firm. 5. Our identity becomes a testimony that draws others to Him. |
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