Our identity in Christ necessitates rejecting an identity built on something else, on something less. In the research behind Transformational Discipleship, believers consistently showed that they know this to be the case. When asked about denying selfish impulses, believers expressed their understanding of the privilege of living a new and transformed life. Transformation is seen when believers are swiftly rejecting that which does not match up with our new identity in Christ.
Helping people encounter the truth of their identity is vital. As we understand who we are in Christ, we are motivated to live the reality of our identity. Leaders who see discipleship through the lens of a new God-given identity are burdened to show people the beautiful ramifications of the identity God brings. They are convinced that a deep hindrance to transformation is seeking satisfaction and fulfillment in a lesser identity, one not found in Christ.
Leaders and churches that view discipleship through the identity lens continually connect the fruit of a transformed life to the identity Christ gives because of the gospel. They are careful not to teach for the fruit of transformation without reminding people of their core identity, the new root God has placed in their lives.
Adapted from Transformational Discipleship (B&H Publishing Group, 2012)
