God never intended for believers to look like the world. Romans 12 tells us not to be conformed to this world, while Romans 8 tells us what we are to be conformed to: the image of His Son.

Our identity is found in Christ. Jesus is the firstborn among many brethren, and through the new birth, we have become part of God’s family. We have been born again through the incorruptible Word of God, and our lives should increasingly reflect the character, nature, and works of Jesus.

Ephesians tells us to be imitators of God as beloved children. Think about children in a family. They often resemble their parents. They may speak like them, act like them, and carry some of the same characteristics. In the same way, the world should be able to see the family resemblance of our Heavenly Father in us.

Following Jesus means more than being kind or asking ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” Jesus healed the sick. He cast out devils. He demonstrated God’s power, ministered with authority, and brought freedom to people. Then He told those who believe in Him that they would do the works He did.

First John 4:17 makes a bold statement: “As He is, so are we in this world.” Not someday when we get to heaven. In this world.

That does not mean we operate independently of Jesus or take His place. Jesus gave us the picture of the Vine and the branches. He is the Vine. We are the branches. The life flowing through the branch comes from the vine, and without Him we can do nothing. Everything we have and everything we are able to do flows from our union with Christ.

Peter understood this when he encountered the lame man at the Beautiful Gate. He boldly said, “Look on us,” and then, “Such as I have give I thee… rise up and walk.” Peter knew he possessed something he could give.

But after the man was healed, Peter immediately made it clear that the miracle had not happened because of his own natural power. It was the Name of Jesus, through faith in His Name, that had made the man whole.

That is covenant identity.

Walking boldly in who we are in Christ does not replace Jesus. It represents Jesus. We can minister with confidence because we know where our authority comes from, and we can point people back to the One who is our source.

The world needs to see Jesus through His people. As we remain connected to Him, we can reflect His character, walk in the authority He has given us, and continue His work here on the earth.