Ephesians Chapter 1
We live in a world full of hatred and we mourn that we are a nation divided, hoping that we can become united once again. But God has something far greater in mind for us. His plan, “…which He set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to uniteallthingsinHim, things in heaven and things on earth.” Ephesians 1:9 What aglorious day that will be when we are united with Christ and all the angelic beings and all the ones who have gone on before us!
Paul wrote this encouraging letter to the church at Ephesus and the surrounding regions while he was imprisoned at Rome. This letter is one that you will find full of the beautiful gifts that God has blessed us with in His great mercy and grace.
Let's Reflect
1. Verse 4 tell us that we were chosen before the foundation of the world that we would have a special standing before God. What is that standing?
2. God made it possible that we would be adopted as sons through whom?
3. And the greatest gift he has lavished on us, is His forgiveness of our trespasses. What word in verse 7 reflects the action that Christ took to pay the penalty of our trespasses?
4. When will God’s mystery be completely revealed to us?
5. As God’s adopted sons He has set forth that we will be given an inheritance. According to verse 7 what is the purpose of this?
6. Not only did God save us from the penalty of our trespasses but He provided a seal for our spirit so that once we are saved our salvation is guaranteed. Who is the one who is our seal, our guarantee?
7. Again, what is the purpose of our being blessed with the seal?
8. Paul is so thankful to hear about the faith of the Ephesians. Have you ever considered that your Pastor is giving thanks to God for your faith, and he is most likely praying for you? What did Paul pray for? (Something your Pastor may be praying for you as well.)
9. When we speak of the greatness of God, we can really see His greatness when we look at the resurrection of Jesus Christ. God has the power to raise Jesus from the dead. Which means He has the power to raise us from the dead. Where is Jesus now?
10. What is the role that has been given to Jesus our King?
