How can we identify true children of God?

Identifying true children of God is a profound and deeply spiritual inquiry that has occupied the hearts and minds of believers throughout the history of Christianity. It is a question that not only delves into the nature of salvation but also touches upon the essence of Christian identity and the transformative power of God's grace. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, I will explore this question through the lens of Scripture, theological reflection, and the lived experience of faith.

The Bible provides a rich tapestry of insights into the characteristics and marks of true children of God. One of the foundational passages that address this issue is found in the Gospel of John. Jesus Himself speaks to this matter in John 1:12-13, stating, "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God." This passage highlights that becoming a child of God is not a matter of human effort or lineage but is a divine act of grace received through faith in Jesus Christ.

True children of God are marked by their faith in Jesus Christ. This faith is not merely an intellectual assent to certain doctrines but a deep, personal trust and reliance on Jesus as Lord and Savior. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in his letter to the Galatians, where he writes, "So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith" (Galatians 3:26). Faith in Christ is the gateway through which we enter into the family of God. It is through faith that we are justified, adopted, and given the Holy Spirit, who bears witness with our spirit that we are God's children (Romans 8:16).

Another essential mark of true children of God is the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a vital sign of our adoption into God's family. Paul writes in Romans 8:14, "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God." The Holy Spirit is the seal and guarantee of our inheritance as God's children (Ephesians 1:13-14). The Spirit's work in our lives produces fruit that reflects the character of Christ, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These virtues are evidence of the Spirit's transformative power and a sign that we belong to God.

Love is another distinguishing characteristic of true children of God. Jesus Himself declared that love would be the hallmark of His disciples: "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). The Apostle John further elaborates on this in his first epistle, stating, "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love" (1 John 4:7-8). The love that characterizes God's children is not a superficial or self-serving love but a selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors the love of Christ. It is a love that seeks the good of others, even at great personal cost.

Obedience to God's commandments is also a significant indicator of true children of God. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). Obedience is not a means of earning salvation but a response to the grace we have received. It is a reflection of our love for God and our desire to honor Him. The Apostle John writes, "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, 'I know him,' but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did" (1 John 2:3-6). True children of God strive to live in accordance with God's will, seeking to emulate the life and teachings of Jesus.

Another aspect to consider is the transformative nature of being a child of God. The Apostle Paul speaks of this transformation in 2 Corinthians 5:17, stating, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" True children of God experience a profound change in their identity and way of life. They are no longer conformed to the patterns of this world but are transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2). This transformation is ongoing and involves growing in holiness and Christlikeness. It is a process of sanctification, empowered by the Holy Spirit, that shapes us more and more into the image of Christ.

The assurance of being a child of God also comes through the internal witness of the Holy Spirit. Paul writes in Romans 8:15-16, "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." This inner testimony of the Spirit provides believers with a deep sense of belonging and assurance of their identity as God's children. It is an intimate and personal experience of God's love and acceptance.

Furthermore, true children of God exhibit a sense of spiritual discernment and a desire for truth. Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27). True children of God have a hunger for God's Word and a desire to know Him more deeply. They are discerning and able to recognize the voice of their Shepherd amidst the myriad voices in the world. This discernment is cultivated through regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers.

Lastly, true children of God are characterized by their hope and anticipation of Christ's return. The Apostle John writes, "Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure" (1 John 3:2-3). This hope is not a passive wish but an active, purifying force that motivates believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. It is a hope that looks forward to the fulfillment of God's promises and the consummation of His kingdom.

In summary, true children of God are identified by their faith in Jesus Christ, the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, love for others, obedience to God's commandments, a transformed life, the inner witness of the Spirit, spiritual discernment, and a hopeful anticipation of Christ's return. These marks are not exhaustive, but they provide a comprehensive picture of what it means to be a child of God. It is important to remember that these characteristics are the result of God's grace and work in our lives, not our own efforts. As we seek to grow in our relationship with God, we can trust that He will continue to shape us into the likeness of His Son and affirm our identity as His beloved children.