Ephesians 4:22-24

“To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”

 

 

This past Sunday I gave a sermon on the importance of authenticity in a Christian’s life.  There are many reasons why we should be authentic and to list them all would take a book. The one I spent the most time on was that it gives legitimacy to the gospel message.

As the New Year begins, it’s natural to reflect on resolutions and goals—dreams of becoming a better version of ourselves. Yet, how often do those resolutions fade as January gives way to February? True and lasting change can’t come from our own strength or efforts; it must come from within, through the transforming power of Christ.

The Apostle Paul calls us to “put off your old self” and to “put on the new self, created after the likeness of God.” This isn’t merely a self-improvement strategy; it’s a call to embrace the new life Christ has given us. The “old self” represents the sinful tendencies and excuses we cling to, like saying, “That’s just the way I am.” But true Christian authenticity doesn’t mean staying the same; it means letting God change us.

On the other hand, hiding behind a polished exterior—trying to appear perfect while concealing our struggles—is just as inauthentic. Jesus warned the Pharisees about this very behavior, calling them “whitewashed tombs” (Matthew 23:27). Authentic faith isn’t about perfection; it’s about letting God’s grace shine through our imperfections.

 

When we live authentically in Christ, three powerful things happen:

1. Authenticity Attracts

When we reflect Jesus’ humility, love, and self-sacrifice, others are drawn to Him through us. Desmond Doss was a conscientious objector during World War II. He refused to carry a weapon, but still played a major part as a medic in the battles that transpired. At one point as others retreated he stayed behind and took on enemy fire while saving 75 men over a 12 hour period. He dragged them to safety and would lower them down a cliff to his fellow soldiers below. His unwavering faith and heroic actions inspired his comrades, and led them to say, “I want what he has.” Do our actions lead others to say the same?

2. Authenticity Affirms

Living a transformed life silences accusations of hypocrisy. Lee Strobel, now a prolific Christian writer and speaker was once a skeptic of Christianity. He went to churches to disprove the Christian gospel. He had his hypocrisy radar going full blast. But he did not see what he expected. He was moved by the authenticity of many Christians and because of their actions he became one of the greatest advocates for the Christian faith. Doubters can be moved toward Christ when they see believers whose lives genuinely reflect the gospel.

3. Authenticity Aspires

Sharing our stories of transformation can inspire others because they see changes in our lives because of who Jesus Christ is in our lives. John Newton was a notorious slave trader before he gave his life to Christ.  When he wrote the beautiful hymn “Amazing Grace” it was a testimony that inspired others to believe that change is possible in their own lives. When people see how God has worked in us, they begin to believe that He can work in them, as well.

The New Year offers a chance to recommit to living as the “new you” in Christ. This authenticity isn’t about staying the same or hiding our flaws. It’s about becoming who God created us to be, through the renewing power of His Spirit.

Here is a prayer of authenticity that we can all  begin  the  new  year with.

Father, thank You for making us new creations in Christ. Help us to live authentically, reflecting Your grace and truth in our lives. May our authenticity draw others to You and inspire them to believe in Your transforming power. Renew us daily and guide us to live in Your likeness, with true righteousness and holiness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This was just a quick devotional summary of the sermon.  You can see the entire sermon here.