What is the nature of your true self?

Definition and Context

The question “What is the nature of your true self?” often arises from a desire to understand personal identity and purpose. Within the biblical record, the true self is consistently described in terms of how a person is created, who shapes that identity, and the ultimate purpose for which one lives. Archaeological discoveries such as the Dead Sea Scrolls (which include copies and fragments of Old Testament Scripture consistent with later Masoretic texts) confirm that this view of humanity has been preserved with noteworthy accuracy over millennia. These writings shed light on a consistent testimony of humanity’s origin, spiritual condition, and need for transformation.

Created in the Image of God

Genesis 1:26–27 declares, “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness… So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.’” This foundational passage describes a significant reality: each person exists as an image-bearer. Being made in the “image” and “likeness” of God establishes human worth and dignity, indicating that the core of the true self is relational, purposeful, and designed for communion with the Creator.

This genesis of the human self separates people from other forms of life. Scientific findings in fields like paleontology and biology even point to a remarkable qualitative distinction between humans and animals, evidenced by unique capacities for abstract thought, moral reasoning, and spiritual awareness. These attributes align well with the idea that each person, at the deepest level of identity, reflects the Creator’s character in ways that transcend purely material explanations.

Effect of the Fall and Sin

However, while humans were created in the image of God, the biblical narrative describes a corruption of this image. Genesis 3 details the choice that introduced sin into the world. Romans 3:23 underscores this pervasive condition: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The Fall does not erase the image of God in people, but it distorts it, affecting thoughts, motivations, and behaviors, and severing the close relationship humans were intended to have with their Maker.

In behavioral terms, this distortion contributes to inclinations toward selfishness, rebellion, and moral confusion. The historical scriptural manuscripts — validated by extensive scholarly studies of ancient texts like Codex Sinaiticus and archaeological evidence confirming Old Testament cultures — maintain the consistent theme that every individual struggles with the effects of sin and is unable to restore that broken image alone.

Spiritual Renewal and the True Self

The biblical narrative progresses to a theme of redemption and transformation. Ezekiel 36:26 promises, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” The realignment of the human heart with God’s righteousness is made possible through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!”

This renewal is not an external improvement alone but involves a fundamental spiritual re-creation. The resurrection—supported by multiple lines of historical evidence such as early creedal testimonies (for example, 1 Corinthians 15:3–7) and the empty tomb accounts—demonstrates the reality of Christ’s victory over sin and death. This living hope underpins the belief that each person’s true self can be restored to relationship with the Creator.

Union with God and Ongoing Transformation

The restoration of the true self occurs through an ongoing union with God, where the Holy Spirit indwells believers. Romans 8:9 notes, “You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you.” Through this spiritual indwelling, the mind and heart are renewed, shaping character, desires, and identity in accord with divine purpose.

Historical Christian writings, such as the letters of the second-century believers (e.g., the epistles of Ignatius), echo this transformation theme: an individual’s identity becomes rooted in a new nature, one progressively conformed to love, holiness, and mission. This process is not merely behavioral refinement but an alignment with the very character of God, restoring what was lost at the Fall.

Purpose and Fulfillment in Glorifying God

The culmination of this transformed identity is expressed in living to reflect and honor the Creator. Revelation 4:11 proclaims, “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things.” Put simply, recognizing one’s true self centers on acknowledging that each person’s highest purpose is to glorify God.

Humanity’s unique capacity for wonder, creativity, and moral reflection offers evidence of being designed for something beyond mere survival. Geological examples such as the global dive into fossil records or the complexity found in every cell can inspire awe, which harmonizes with the scriptural affirmation that the entire universe points to an intelligent Creator. This awe propels a person toward worship, fulfilling the true self’s design to honor the One in whose image they are made.

Living Out the True Self

Those who embrace this renewed identity progressively discover that genuine fulfillment arises from right relationship with God, reflecting His image to the world, and growing in purpose. Such a life also involves extending grace, seeking truth, and showing compassion to others. As Galatians 2:20 emphasizes, “I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” This confession reveals a profound unity with the Redeemer and a transformation of motives and goals, aligning them with a greater eternal plan.

Practical outworkings of the true self include serving others, cultivating gifts, and sharing hope with those who struggle. Anecdotal accounts from various parts of the world continue to provide modern-day examples of personal transformation, miraculous healing, and renewed minds, reinforcing that the God who created humanity still interacts with His creation in tangible ways.

Conclusion

The nature of the true self, as witnessed in Scripture and corroborated by historical, archaeological, and personal testimony, centers on being made in God’s image, marred by sin, and restored through Christ’s saving power. Each person’s genuine individuality can flourish when brought into alignment with the Creator’s design and purpose.

This view affirms intrinsic value and meaning, grounded in relationship with the One who made all things. Restored in Christ and guided by the Spirit, the true self reflects divine love and truth, ultimately finding complete fulfillment in a life that honors the Creator.