I AM A DIFFERENTIATOR
A ‘differentiator’ is “one who differentiates. The word ‘differentiate’ is defined by Oxford Dictionaries as “to recognize or ascertain what makes someone different”. What then differentiates God’s children from the world? As Christians we know that it is the presence of God which sets us apart—Christ in us, the Hope of Glory! (Colossians 1:27).
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus laid out the blueprint to a perfect lifestyle. In Matthew chapter 5 we learn how one who adopts the be-attitudes as a lifestyle can serve as light and salt of the earth (Matt. 5:13-15).
The amazing thing about light and salt is that they both have the capacity to change, transform and distinguish that to which they are applied to. For example, when you apply light, all darkness dissipates and the same space or environment that was unknown becomes known. The same with salt, when applied to foods it alters their flavour, it even changes the ability of food to be preserved.
Following along within this reality, we will briefly look at how the bible tells us how we become agents of change and transformation, and how we are distinguished to and from the world.
To change – 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you… (Mathew 28:19 NKJV)
To Transform – The Kingdom of heaven is compared to leaven; meaning that it completely takes over a substance/ bread dough. We are carriers of the kingdom and of the presence of God; we must therefore affect our spheres of influence in the same manner.
20 … “To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened”. (Luke 13:20-21 NKJV)
To distinguish – When we take on our role as ‘differentiators’, others must be able to perceive or point out a difference in our lives and the impact we have on our environments. Moreover, we must be able to walk in those good works God predestined us to walk in (Ephesians 2: 10 NKJV) and show the positive difference and blessings that exist in Christ Jesus. Being grounded in our new identity plays a key role in being able to be set apart and noticed for the Glory of God.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people… (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV)
19 … whoever does and teaches them [God’s commandments] he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Matt. 5: 19 NKJV)
Next week we will look at Joseph’s life and how through his identity in holiness and servitude he is distinguished as one of the great differentiators mentioned in the bible.