That’s Not Who I Am Any More! – March 13, 2024

Read: Ephesians 2:1-10

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
Ephesians 2:1,2,4,5

That’s Not Who I Am Any More!

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

You see an old friend. You used to go to school together or lived near each other.

“Hey! How are you? Do you remember that time when…”

Sometimes they recall something fun, a fond memory, a happy time.

And sometimes it’s a little different: “Do you remember when you played a prank on Mr. Schultz?” “Remember when you got caught cheating on that huge test?” “Didn’t you… push someone into the mud?”

That can be embarrassing. Sometimes it’s nice to see an old friend… and sometimes that friend remembers things that are better left forgotten.

The conversation continues: “Well, that was me… but that’s not who I am any more. I did those things, but I’ve changed.”

That’s the way Paul writes. Six different times he basically says, “That’s who you were—but that’s not who you are, anymore.” Consider what he says:

• You were dead in your trespasses and sins.
• You formerly walked in those evil deeds.
• You [used to] follow the ways of this present evil world.
• You were following the ruler of the domain of the air.
• Formerly, we all lived among them, and you carried out the desires of the flesh.
• You were, by nature, objects of God’s wrath.

But that’s not who you are, anymore. Because—God.

“But God, because he is rich in mercy… made us alive with Christ.”

We know who we used to be—but that’s not who we are, anymore. We are different, not because of our own actions—but because of God.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, I thank you for the remarkable change you have worked in my life. Instead of embarrassing me with all I’ve done wrong, you remind me of your forgiveness and promise that I belong to you through my baptism. Keep me as your very own, and help me live as a child of God. In Jesus’ name I pray this. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What does sin result in? (vv. 1-2)
• When did God make you alive?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why did God make you alive in Christ?
• “That’s not who I am, anymore.” Why is the Christian life different from life without Christ?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If we are new people in Christ—then why do we continue to sin?
• Looking at verses 2-3, identify two things that you can know about this world and the people in it.