Big Idea: Every believer is a saint!

In Roman Catholic theology, the saints are in heaven. In the Bible, the saints are on earth. The idea of the word “saints” is a group of people set apart for the Lord and His kingdom.

There are three references referring to godly character of saints: "that you receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints …" (Romans 16:2). "For the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). "But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints" (Ephesians 5:3).

Therefore, scripturally speaking, the “saints” are the body of Christ, Christians, the church. All Christians are considered saints. All Christians are saints—and at the same time are called to be saints (Got Questions).

When you are tempted to sin, remember that you’re a saint. Knowing your identity in Christ is a key to victory. Below is the Bible study I sent last week. If you didn't get a chance, spend some time reading and reflecting on your identity in Christ. Often, we don't remember our identity in Christ because we are "double-minded." Our values at street level do not always match what we say we value. 

Identity Bible Study:

Read Romans 5:5-21

• While we are made in the image of God, because of Adam's sin, we bear the brokenness of his transgression. Apart from Christ, how does this passage describe you?
• What does this passage tell you that Christ has done for you?
• Compare the free gift of God to the trespass of Adam. What similarities do you notice? What differences?

Read Ephesians 4:20-5:2

• What does it look like to live as an imitator of God?
• How is it possible for us to live out this calling?
• How does centering our identity in Christ provide stability to our sense of self, even as our seasons and circumstances change? What truths about our identity in Christ are unchanging?
• How have you seen change-sometimes difficult and unwanted-lead to God's transformation in your life? How has that at times been a difficult, but needed transformation?
• How will you live differently in light of your understanding that you are made in the image of God?