Ephesians emphasizes that we are a body. In the first three chapters, Paul discusses the theology of the body. In the second three chapters, Paul addresses the practice of the body. Ephesians 1:4-6a contains the blueprints for the body. You and I are part of that marvelous body. Today, we will discuss why God created the body.
I. Ephesians 1:4 - Holy and Blameless
A. 1:4 - even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be
and before Him.
Paul is not talking about how one is saved, but for what purpose he/she is saved. It is the ultimate end of our salvation.
Compare Colossians 1:22; Ephesians 5:27: without
or wrinkle… B. When you see the focus, everything else falls into place.
He chose
in Him. The only ones who are holy and blameless are those who have chosen Him. The “us” in 1.4 are those who believe and choose to respond.
C. God predestined the
of salvation - not the beginning of it.
Those who respond to the call will end up looking like Jesus.
Romans 8:28-30; Philippians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 3:18
II. Ephesians 1:5a - Predestined for Adoption as Sons and Daughters
A. 1:5a - In
, he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ… This goes beyond our comprehension. B. 1:5a - In love, he predestined us for adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ… See a close, personal relationship.
C. 1:5a - In love, he predestined us for
as sons through Jesus Christ… God is bringing together a people in whom He can delight and enjoy.
III. Ephesians 1:5b-6a - God did all this for His Glory
A. 1:5b - God took great delight in thinking about His future people, thinking kindly about them.
B. 1:6a -it’s all for a purpose - the praise of His glorious
.
IV. As We Close
A. Psalm 136:23-24 - When you think about it, you can only praise Him. Thank Him. Live for Him. Be an active part of
His body….B. Jesus is the source of our life. Through His sacrifice, we’ve been born again. Have you?