The Gospel, Identity, and New Life in Christ

Author: Dave Jenkins Show: Contending for the Word Q&A Date: June 1, 2026

Show Summary

In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins addresses the issue of identity, repentance, sexuality, and the authority of God’s Word.This episode explains the difference between temptation, behavior, and identity while emphasizing that the believer’s identity is rooted in union with Christ rather than sinful desires.Drawing from 1 Corinthians 6, Romans 6, Genesis 1–2, Matthew 19, and Ephesians 5, Dave explains God’s design for marriage, the transforming power of the gospel, and why Christians must speak truth with compassion and biblical clarity.

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Key Scriptures

• 1 Corinthians 6:9–11
• Romans 6:1–2
• Genesis 1–2
• Matthew 19
• Ephesians 5:22–33
• Ephesians 4:15

Episode Highlights

• The difference between temptation, behavior, and identity
• Why Christian identity is rooted in union with Christ
• The role of repentance in the Christian life
• God’s design for marriage and sexuality
• Why truth and compassion must remain together
• The transforming power of the gospel

Full Episode

Some Christians today identify as gay Christians. Others insist that phrase is impossible. So which is it? Is it simply a debate about language, or does it reveal something deeper about identity, repentance, and the authority of the Word of God?In this episode, Dave Jenkins carefully examines what Scripture teaches about temptation, identity, repentance, and union with Christ. He explains why believers are ultimately defined not by sinful desires but by their relationship to Jesus Christ.This episode also explores God’s design for marriage from Genesis, the New Testament teaching on sanctification, and the importance of speaking truth with compassion in difficult cultural conversations.The gospel does not merely forgive sinners. In Christ, sinners are made new.

Reflection Questions

• How does Scripture define a believer’s identity?
• Why is repentance essential in the Christian life?
• How can Christians speak truth with both clarity and compassion?
• Why does God’s design for marriage matter biblically and theologically?

Related Resources

• The War of the Worldviews by Dave Jenkins
• Articles on biblical worldview and discernment at Servants of Grace
• Additional episodes of Contending for the Word Q&A

Call to Action

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