What Makes Us Human? A Search for Identity
The search for identity has been a defining theme across generations, but particularly in the ’90s, when movies like The Matrix and Dances with Wolves explored self-discovery. Even today, finding ourselves remains a key part of personal growth. But what does it truly mean to be human?
Some argue that we are primarily minds—rational beings who think, therefore we are. But does that mean those with less intellectual capacity are somehow less human? Others suggest that we are just animals, no different from the creatures we share the planet with. But if that were true, would we hold ourselves to higher moral and ethical standards than nature dictates?
Another common view is that we are resources, defined by what we produce or achieve. Our culture often equates worth with status, career, or wealth. Yet deep down, we know human dignity isn’t tied to our productivity.
Perhaps the most dominant perspective today is that identity comes from within—we are our true selves, and fulfilment comes from self-expression. But if our identity is entirely self-created, where do we draw the line? And what happens when that identity is challenged, unfulfilled, or falls short of expectations?
These questions reveal that our identity cannot rest on a single aspect of our existence. To fully understand who we are, we must look beyond the limits of intellect, biology, or self-definition. What if our identity isn’t something we construct, but something we receive?
Where Does Identity Come From?
In a world that tells us to look inward to find meaning, Jesus presents a radically different perspective. In Matthew 15:19-20, He teaches that sin originates from within our own hearts—not from external influences, as the Pharisees believed. They thought sin was something to be avoided by staying away from certain people, places, and objects. But Jesus made it clear: the true source of our spiritual corruption is within us.
This teaching is as challenging today as it was then. We often assume that looking deep within ourselves will bring clarity and purpose. Instead, Jesus tells us that our own hearts are the source of our struggles. The confusion, the angst, the brokenness—we don’t find the solution inside ourselves; we find the problem.
So where do we turn? Not to our own self-perceptions, not to the validation of others, but to Christ. God, who created us, knows us fully. He alone is qualified to define who we are.
Psalm 8 captures both our smallness and our dignity. David looks at the vastness of the heavens and asks, “What is man that you are mindful of him?” He is in awe that the Creator of the universe cares for him. This Psalm reminds us that we are both insignificant in the grand scale of creation and yet deeply valued by God.
Our identity is not something we construct; it is something we receive. And the ultimate proof of our worth is found in the cross of Christ. The same God who placed the stars in the sky chose to enter His creation, to live among us, and to die for us. His love defines us.
Rather than finding identity in who we love, we are most defined by being loved by God. The Apostle John often referred to himself as “the disciple Jesus loved.” Not because he was loved more than others, but because the love of Christ had become the defining reality of his life.
And so it can be for us. Our truest identity is found in the love of Jesus, in receiving the life He offers, and in embracing the dignity He gives us.
Instead of looking inward or outward, let’s look upward—to the One who made us, knows us, and loves us perfectly. To learn more about these topics, come and join us.