공동체와 양육

Road to Ephesus (Eph 1:1-14)

2010.01.31Rev. Mike Lee

Paul's long sentence of praise in Ephesians 1:3-14 shows that God chose us in Christ before the world began, adopted us as His children, gave each of us a purpose in Christ, and sealed us with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance.

Paul's praise in one long sentence, written from prison (vv. 3-14)

Paul writes verses 3 to 14 as one long sentence, with no commas or periods to hold it in check, and it begins and ends with praise to God. He wrote these words from prison, yet his enthusiasm and conviction remain strong. Ephesians is a book we can read again and again, full of deep theology and practical truth for our daily lives. As we study it, we see how God worked through Paul, who once persecuted the church and became a planter of churches.

We were chosen in Christ before the world began (vv. 4-8)

Before the creation of the world, God chose us in Him. We did not choose Him; He chose us. In love He predestined us for adoption as His children, so we share the same rights as one born into the Father's family. Regardless of our past, our flaws, and even our opposition to God, He offers forgiveness through the blood of Christ. His grace is lavished on us without limit, covering us completely, like noodles drenched in sauce with not one dry strand left.

We have purpose in Christ, even in ordinary days (v. 9)

God made us for His good pleasure and gave each of us a purpose, even when life feels empty. Our ordinary days, however mundane, can be significant steps toward that purpose, just as Daniel in The Karate Kid was learning karate through his chores. John Piper says that when the connection between our present life and our purpose breaks, there are three choices: to end one's life, to numb oneself with alcohol, drugs, sex, or laziness, or to find our true purpose again. Those who are in Christ should see that purpose unfolding.

We are marked and sealed by the Holy Spirit (vv. 11-14)

When we believe, God seals us with the promised Holy Spirit, and we are no longer the same, like plain white milk turned into rich chocolate milk. The seal shows that we are authentic and belong to God, and it protects us so that demons cannot possess our souls, though they may try to harm us. The Holy Spirit is also a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of God's possession. That inheritance is waiting for us in heaven, and no one can take it away.

Apply to Life

  • Let us remember that we were chosen in Christ before the creation of the world and rest in that assurance.
  • Let us receive God's lavish grace and forgiveness and live as children of His family.
  • Let us live each ordinary day with purpose, doing everything in Christ to bring glory to God.
  • Let us guard our faith and live as those marked and sealed by the Holy Spirit, belonging to God for eternity.

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