Citizens of Heaven: A New Identity
Introduction:
Begin by welcoming the congregation warmly and introducing the key verse: Ephesians 2:19 (NLT) - "So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family."
Establish the context of Ephesians as a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Ephesian believers, emphasizing the transformative message it contains.
Point 1: The Transformation of Identity
Illustration: Share a personal or relatable story of a time when someone's identity was significantly transformed, perhaps due to a change in circumstances or a new perspective.
Scripture: Read Ephesians 2:19 - "So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners."
Exposition:
Explain the significance of the Gentiles' transformation from being "strangers and foreigners" to "citizens along with all of God's holy people."
Highlight that this transformation is not just a change in status but a profound shift in identity through faith in Christ.
Point 2: United in God's Family
Illustration: Share an anecdote or story that illustrates the concept of belonging to a loving and supportive family.
Scripture: Reference Ephesians 2:19b - "You are members of God’s family."
Exposition:
Explore the idea of believers being members of God's family, emphasizing the unity and love shared among brothers and sisters in Christ.
Discuss the privileges and responsibilities that come with being part of God's family, including support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
Point 3: Citizens of Heaven
Illustration: Use the analogy of being a citizen of a particular country to explain the concept of being citizens of heaven.
Scripture: Reference Philippians 3:20 (NLT) - "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior."
Exposition:
Expand on the idea of being citizens of heaven, where Christ reigns as King.
Discuss how this heavenly citizenship should impact our daily lives, including our values, priorities, and actions.
Conclusion:
Summarize the key points, emphasizing the transformation of identity, belonging to God's family, and being citizens of heaven.
Encourage the congregation to reflect on their own identities in Christ and the significance of belonging to God's family.
Challenge them to live as citizens of heaven, aligning their lives with the values and principles of God's kingdom.
Closing Quote:
"As citizens of heaven, we have a new identity, a new family, and a new purpose. Let us live our lives in a manner worthy of this heavenly citizenship, shining the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it." - Dean Courtier
