Catechism: Social Media & My IdentitySample

What makes you, “you?” Is it your personality and your style? Your tastes and your talents? While those things are part of what makes each of us unique, they’re not the essence of our identity. For followers of Jesus, the core truth of who we are is our identity as children of God. 

To help us understand that new identity, the author of this passage uses descriptive language, imagery, and metaphors. Have you ever thought of yourself as a “living stone?” Probably not. But what that means is that God is using you, along with other believers, to build His spiritual Church. 

Right now, you might think of yourself as just a normal teenager, but in Christ you are a royal priest; you can approach God boldly and freely enter into His presence!

As you read this passage, you’ll see a few more images and metaphors. Find as many as you can and see how they help you understand your identity as God’s child.

Read 1 Peter 2:4-10

Reflection Questions: 

1. This passage is filled with powerful descriptions of our identity in Christ: Believers are called “living stones,” “holy priests,” “God’s very own possession,” and as “called out of darkness and into his wonderful light.” Which of these descriptions is most meaningful to you right now? Why? 
2. Do you find that social media helps you see yourself the way God made you to be? In what ways does it encourage you? In what ways does it distract or confuse you? 
3. Throughout this passage, the “you” is plural. This shows us that God is at work on both the individual and community level. How can belonging to a community of believers impact you as you grow in your individual identity?