Comments on: Welcome To Your Identity

By: David Nagel

David Nagel — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:56:35 +0000

Thanks Joel. I definitely appreciate the clearer explanation. Very helpful. See you Sunday!

By: joelt

joelt — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:10:13 +0000

LOOOONG POST…sorry!
David, thanks for sharing your concerns. They were well articulated and very valid, so I’d like to provide a bit of explanation as others might have similar questions.

1. First, I don’t normally teach from The Message, in fact, it was a decision specific to this sermon. I actually study from the TNIV and NASV (which are regarded as two very literal, accurate and reliable translations) as well as using tools such as Accordance to look at the original language if necessary. Second, The Message actually is considered a “translation” of the scriptures by the International Bible Society…the reason being is that Eugene Petterson translated it straight from the original language. It is not considered to be a very “literal” translation, but it is not considered “inaccurate” either. It is simply a translated paraphrase of the Bible. Andy was aware and in support of me using this translation for this sermon in order to teach the central idea of this passage clearly without distraction. I assure you The Message translation did not formulate or drive the main point of the sermon.

2. Good question about success! I wish I would have had more time to explore that and admit this was probably the most unclear part of the sermon. The point I was attempting to make is that we focus on “what we do” and “who we know” because the world tells us that is how we will be successful. But God defines success differently and if we allow him to transform our identity in the the likeness of His Son, our potential to be successful the way God defines success is much more likely!
Hope this helps…I REALLY appreciate your critical thoughts and the time you took to share them.

By: David Nagel

David Nagel — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:14:49 +0000

Good Evening Joel,

I also enjoyed your message. I enjoyed the applicability shared at the end when you outlined actionable things for us to do in outlining our values and scriptures to associate. Great idea for us all!

There were two items that caused concern:
1. Use of the message. I am not sure why pastors, other than Andy, are using the message. My studies and wise counsel has suggested I stick to the bible as straight text instead of introducing a new source that is not the actual word of God into the equation.
2. Definition of “success”. I am not sure I understood the link between success and the three aspects of our identity. Maybe I am just seeing success for me as different than success for my brother or sister…I am still trying to grasp this.

By: joel thomas

joel thomas — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:28:00 +0000

Ben,dp and Megan – thanks so much for your encouragement! I’m so glad it was helpful and can’t wait to read more about what you are putting on your lists!
Darcy – you make a great point and I couldn’t agree more. If we were doing another week on the personal side of Identity that is exactly what I would talk about next. I guess you can only say so much in 35 minutes and we felt like the key idea was getting people to prioritize their personal character. Thanks for your comments!

By: Darcy_stjames

Darcy_stjames — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:35:14 +0000

Hi Joel,
Just wanted to let you know that I loved your message….however, I felt you had left out such an important part to your message….you never once mentioned Christ in helping us to become a better “Who you are” person…..The scriptures specifically speak about doing things through Christ…we cannot on our own become this awesome person that you’re encouraging us to become. We have to call on Christ to help us become like him. If we attempt to do it on our own, we’ll fall flat on our faces….This is where he wants us(to call on him to help) and so many of us try to do it on our own and fail….but through our weaknesses, his strength is made perfect and shines through our lives. Anyways, just thought I’d share my two cents…look forward to hearing the rest of the series! :)

By: megan

megan — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 13:13:25 +0000

You have opened my eyes. My focus had been shifted to what I do, and who I know. I can’t wait until I get the opportunity to introduce myself as who I am; “I am Megan, and I am a believer in Jesus Christ”. I brought a friend with me and she is ready for part II. Thank you for such a powerful message!!

By: dp

dp — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:55:00 +0000

i can’t really use words to describe how blown away–and a little freaked out–to see the identity series be about….well…what it’s about. The past three weeks it’s exactly what God has been hammering into my heart through every avenue I see. just…wow…ha.

By: Ben

Ben — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 19:36:48 +0000

Joel, if you’re reading, you did a fantastic job today in your message. I look forward to following your list as it’s posted this week and working on my own.

Take care and have a great week, all.