IDENTITY, pt. 10—I am Victorious
Ephesians 2:1-10

“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Pet. 2:9

Believers are victorious over the PAST

Though all people are born spiritually rebellious to God and deserve wrath for their sins, those who turn to Jesus and repent are forgiven of past sins, never to be remembered (Ps. 103:12). Believers are redeemed (Gr. apolutrosis, ‘ransom paid in full’) from their past and given a new life free from sin and judgment (Rom. 8:1; Eph. 1:7). Through Christ, people have victory from who they were!

Believers are victorious in the PRESENT

Having a new nature desiring to please God, through the power of the Holy Spirit, followers of Jesus are made saints while living (Eph. 4:12; 5:3)! Though not perfect in action before people, believers are perfect in standing before God. They now live their lives for the glory of God, knowing He is helping them to show their victorious character, which is demonstrated by good works (Matt. 5:16). Through Christ, people have victory in who they are!

Believers are victorious in PERPETUITY

During their lives, a believer’s salvation and victory are guaranteed through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who has sealed (Gr. sphragidzō, ‘to stamp for security or preservation’) their eternal destiny (Eph. 1:13, 14). Additionally, they are already spiritually seated with Christ in heaven in a position of authority and victory. This glorious reality includes being promoted to priests and kings, ruling in God’s Kingdom (Luke 12:31, 32; Rev. 1:5, 6; 3:20, 21; 5:9, 10). With victorious eternal life, believers live their lives abandoned to God’s plan without fear (John 3:36; 10:28; 1 Cor. 15:54-58). This truth brings tremendous confidence as Christians will escape the coming judgment on humanity (Rom. 2:1-11). At Christ’s return, he will separate forgiven from unforgiven, then after ruling with Jesus on earth for 1000 years, believers will reign forever with Him on the new earth—including even judging (Gr. krinō, ‘to decide judicially’) angels (Matt. 25:32, 33; 1 Cor. 6:1-3; Rev. 20:1-15). Through Christ, people have victory in who they will be—forever (Rom. 8:28-39)!