Matthew 16:13-16 (NIV)

Our worth is not determined by others' opinions but by how God sees us.

In a world where social media and public opinion shape our self-image, it's easy to believe the lie that our identity is defined by what others think of us.

The Question of Identity...

• Jesus Asks: “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” — Matthew 16:13 (NIV)
• Responses from Others: “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” — Matthew 16:14 (NIV)

The Impact of Others' Opinions on Our Self-Worth:

1. Insecurity: Constantly seeking validation can lead to a fragile self-image.
2. Conformity: The pressure to meet others' expectations can distract us from our true calling.
3. Comparison: Measuring ourselves against others can diminish our unique purpose in God’s plan.

The Importance of Personal Revelation...

• Jesus' Question: “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” -Matthew 16:15 (NIV)
• God’s Revelation: “Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’” -Matthew 16:16 (NIV)
• Jesus' Affirmation: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” -‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we get a revelation of who Jesus we discover who we are!

Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV)

Our value is not defined by our achievements, but by God's love for us.

Many of us fall into the trap of believing that our worth is tied to what we accomplish. This lie can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a distorted sense of identity.

The Truth of Our Identity:

1. Saved By Grace...

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

1. Created for Good Works...

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Our purpose is rooted in God's plan, not merely in our productivity.

Three Traps of Defining Ourselves by Our Work:

1. Performance Trap: The constant need to achieve
2. Comparison Trap: Measuring our worth against others
3. Identity Trap: Being defined by our work

Our worth comes from being a child of God, not from our achievements!