Identity

In the biblical context, identity is deeply rooted in the understanding of who God is and who we are in relation to Him. The Bible begins with the creation narrative, where humanity is made in the image of God: "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them" (Genesis 1:27). This foundational truth establishes the intrinsic value and identity of every human being as a reflection of the divine.

Throughout Scripture, identity is often linked to one's relationship with God. For instance, the Israelites are repeatedly reminded of their identity as God's chosen people: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth" (Deuteronomy 7:6). This identity is not based on their own merit but on God's sovereign choice and covenantal love.

In the New Testament, identity is further clarified through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Believers are identified as children of God through faith in Christ: "But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12). This new identity is transformative, calling believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the believer's identity in Christ as a new creation: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). This identity transcends ethnic, social, and cultural distinctions, uniting all believers in the body of Christ (Galatians 3:28).

Timing

Timing in the biblical narrative often reflects God's sovereignty and perfect plan. The concept of timing is evident from the creation account, where God establishes the rhythm of time through the creation of day and night (Genesis 1:3-5). The biblical calendar, with its appointed feasts and Sabbaths, underscores the importance of divine timing in the life of Israel.

The prophetic literature frequently addresses the theme of timing, particularly concerning the fulfillment of God's promises. The prophets often speak of "the appointed time" or "the time of the end," indicating that God's purposes unfold according to His divine schedule (Daniel 8:19).

In the New Testament, the timing of Christ's incarnation is described as the "fullness of time": "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law" (Galatians 4:4). This phrase signifies that Jesus' birth occurred at the precise moment ordained by God, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and initiating the new covenant.

The concept of timing is also crucial in understanding eschatology, the study of the end times. Jesus speaks of the signs of the times and the importance of being watchful and prepared for His return: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come" (Matthew 24:42). The Apostle Peter reminds believers that God's timing is not like human timing, as "with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day" (2 Peter 3:8).

In the life of the believer, timing is often associated with waiting on God's perfect will and trusting in His timing for the fulfillment of His promises. The Psalms frequently encourage believers to wait patiently for the Lord, as seen in Psalm 27:14: "Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!" . This waiting is not passive but involves active faith and trust in God's sovereign plan.