Divine Approval

Divine approval refers to the favor and acceptance granted by God to individuals, actions, or offerings that align with His will and righteousness. Throughout the Bible, divine approval is depicted as a desirable state, often associated with blessings, guidance, and eternal reward.

In the Old Testament, divine approval is frequently linked to obedience to God's commandments and faithfulness to His covenant. For instance, in Genesis 4:4, Abel's offering is accepted by God because it is given in faith and sincerity: "And Abel brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. And the LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering" . This approval contrasts with Cain's offering, which is rejected due to his lack of genuine faith and righteousness.

The account of Noah further illustrates divine approval. In Genesis 6:8-9, Noah is described as a righteous man who found favor in the eyes of the Lord: "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God" . As a result, Noah and his family are spared from the flood, demonstrating that divine approval leads to salvation and protection.

In the New Testament, divine approval is closely associated with faith in Jesus Christ and adherence to His teachings. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes the necessity of faith for obtaining God's approval: "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" . This passage underscores the importance of a relationship with God based on trust and belief.

The life and ministry of Jesus Christ exemplify divine approval. At His baptism, God the Father expresses His approval of Jesus, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This divine endorsement affirms Jesus' identity and mission, setting the stage for His redemptive work.

Identity in Christ

Identity in Christ is a foundational concept in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformation and new identity believers receive through faith in Jesus. This identity is characterized by a personal relationship with God, adoption into His family, and a call to live according to His purposes.

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the theme of identity in Christ in his epistles. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, he writes, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" . This verse highlights the radical change that occurs when a person becomes a follower of Christ, leaving behind their former life and embracing a new identity rooted in Him.

Believers are also described as children of God, a status that confers both privilege and responsibility. In Romans 8:16-17, Paul states, "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him" . This passage emphasizes the intimate relationship believers have with God and the inheritance they share with Christ.

Furthermore, identity in Christ involves a call to holiness and righteous living. Ephesians 4:22-24 instructs believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" . This transformation is an ongoing process, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as believers seek to reflect the character of Christ in their daily lives.

In summary, divine approval and identity in Christ are interconnected themes that underscore the believer's relationship with God. Divine approval is granted through faith and obedience, while identity in Christ offers a new life marked by transformation, adoption, and a call to holiness. These concepts are central to understanding the Christian faith and the believer's journey toward spiritual maturity.