Identity Lesson #4
The search for identity
Intro: When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Study
- Col 3:1-4, 1 Peter 2:9 One of the most important issues facing this generation in all parts of the world is the question of identity.
- Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 The sense of lost identity without Christ drives people to search for their identity, trying to figure out who they are, and what their purpose is in this world.
- 1 Cor 1:9 We were created to be in constant relationship with God, when we are right with God, we feel complete, but when we don’t know Christ, we are empty.
- John 4:13-14 This emptiness, this hole that exists inside when we do not know God is what drives people to search for their identity, and completeness in life.
- Col 3:1-3 Many people are separate from God because of abuse, hurt and sin, this separation drives many to search deeper in the world for their identity.
- Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 The sense of lost identity without Christ drives people to search for their identity, trying to figure out who they are, and what their purpose is in this world.
- Eph 1:4-5, Ps 63:1 This generation is searching for identity in many different ways, today we are surrounded by labels, alternative lifestyles, and various social groups.
- 1 Cor 6:19-20 There are many who find their identity through an addiction, alcohol, drugs, pornography, or some other secret sin.
- Romans 1:27 There are some who identify as homosexual, or bisexual, lifestyles that are not Gods will or plan for their lives.
- Prov 14:12 Still there are others who identity as agnostic, gothic, anorexic, materialistic, or one of many other labels.
- 2 Cor 5:17 When we search for identity in any sin apart from God, we will only end up even more empty and broken, but when we repent, and surrender our old identity, God will forgive us, set us free, and give us a new identity in him.
- 1 Cor 6:19-20 There are many who find their identity through an addiction, alcohol, drugs, pornography, or some other secret sin.
Discussion
- What are some of the many alternative lifestyles, and labels that this generation is trying to find their identity in?
- Why do you think so many people who are empty and searching for identity resist Christianity?
- What are some ways that we can reach out to those who are lost and searching for their identity
- Is there anything outside of Christ that you personally struggle finding your identity in, if so what is it?
End: Pray for any who want to repent of finding their identity in something outside of Christ, then take requests.