Birthright: Living from Your Gospel Identity

The way of the world goes something like this: We do things—perform, serve, work—to prove our worth. We chase value in the eyes of our family, friends, spouse, boss, or even our pastor.

If we do a good enough job and others perceive us as valuable, then we believe we’ll be accepted and wanted. Slowly, our identity forms around what we do. Our doing becomes our being. But this way of living is a trap.

It’s exhausting.

And it’s not the way of Jesus.

If we are in Christ, then the Bible teaches we have been transformed and given a new identity.

We’ve been made part of a family of missionary servants—people sent to make disciples of Jesus. This is not a metaphor or an ideal. This is reality.

It’s our birthright.

Even if no one ever told you.

The more we believe this to be true, the more our lives begin to align with it. And it changes everything.

When Baptism Tells the Whole Story

We’ve all seen baptisms before. But have we really heard what they’re saying?

In Matthew 28:19, Jesus gives this command:

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

This wasn’t just a religious formula. Jesus was telling us who we now are.

To be baptized into the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit means being established into a whole new identity.

Let’s break that down…

You Are Part of a New Family

Baptized into the name of the Father

This is about relationship.

family praying before sharing a meal

Our name reveals whose family we belong to. God is now our true Father. We are his dearly loved children. That makes the Church our family.

This isn’t sentimental—it’s structural. Family is now our primary identity.
Gospel Fluency: A Relational Game-changer! explores what this looks like in your everyday relationships.

You Are a Servant of the King

Baptized into the name of the Son

Jesus is our King who came not to be served, but to serve. Our new identity is shaped by his life.

We now live as servants of his mission—bringing restoration, hope, and good news to others in tangible ways.

Serving isn’t an obligation. It’s who we are.

You Are a Sent One

Baptized into the name of the Holy Spirit

The Spirit was the sending agent of the early Church—and he still is.

Just as the Spirit empowered and sent Jesus, he now sends us. That makes every Christian a missionary, not just a select few.
Changing Your Mind About Discipleship digs deeper into how this mindset shift affects everything.

Putting the Pieces Together

So let’s connect the dots:

  • You’re God’s child. You are part of his family.
  • You’re living like Jesus. You have the posture of a servant.
  • You’re sent by the Spirit. You live as a missionary.

We are a family of missionary servants, sent as disciples who make more disciples of Jesus!

That’s your gospel identity. This is not something to earn or achieve. It’s a gift. It’s already yours. It’s the identity you were baptized into. It’s your birthright.

If you want to begin walking in this more intentionally, check out
The Gospel Primer: 8-Week Series.
It’s a great tool to help your family or community internalize this new way of living.

Prefer a quick video on this? I recorded a short one you can pass along to your team or friends:

 


Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to live out my identity in Christ?

Living out your identity in Christ means embracing who God says you are—not based on your performance, but on His finished work. This identity is rooted in being a beloved child of God, a servant of Jesus, and a sent missionary. It shapes how you see yourself, your relationships, and your purpose.

How does baptism relate to my new identity?

Baptism is far more than a ritual; it’s a declaration of the transformation that’s already taken place in your life. You are baptized into the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit—established as a child of God, a servant of Jesus, and a missionary empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Can I live as a missionary even if I’m not a church leader?

Yes! Every Christian is called to live as a missionary. The Holy Spirit sends all believers into everyday places—homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods—to make the love and truth of Jesus visible. It’s not about a title; it’s about identity.

About the author, Caesar

The author of the top-selling books, The Gospel Primer, Transformed and Small is Big, Slow is Fast. His latest book, SLOW BURN: Relaxing Into Theology hit #1 on Amazon.

"I help those with a high commitment to intentional living in the areas of their family, faith and work acquire the leadership skills and tools necessary to succeed and leave a lasting legacy."