Grace Notes // Ephesians Week 1

Written by Keli Miller

A (Really) Extravagant Gift

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he richly poured out on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

Ephesians 1:7-8

In this letter Paul wastes no time reminding the church in Ephesus of the gift of the Gospel. Reminding them that God has elected and chosen them before they were born. That through the Son they have been redeemed. And, that through the Spirit we are sealed to Him. 

Paul, who once was Saul, knows as well as anyone that it is hard to accept a gift that you have not earned. Jesus died on the cross for Paul- while he was still Saul. Paul knew what it was like to be adopted into the family of God. I imagine that especially in the early days of his ministry, Paul dealt a lot with feeling like a foreigner or a stranger in a new country. Paul needed no reminding of his past or that he didn’t earn his adoption into the family of God. Being human like us, I’m sure there were times when he slipped into a striving mentality, trying to make up for the sins of his past, trying to prove his worth.  But as Chris mentioned on Sunday there is a huge difference between deserving something and being worth it. And that's the piece that we are so quick to get confused. God has called us worth it, despite being undeserving. As much as we might wrestle with it, we can not earn what has been freely given. 

It’s awkward and uncomfortable to receive an extravagant gift and have nothing to give in return except open, empty hands and  praises of gratitude. But it’s that posture of humility that blesses our Father.

I don’t know who needs to be reminded of  this but if it’s you know; 

There is no sneaking into Heaven. 

There is no earning Heaven.

There is no being kicked out of Heaven.  

You have been elected, redeemed, and sealed. 

IN THE WORD

Read the full letter that is Ephesians. 

Read John 12:1-8 

Read Hebrews 12:1-3

FURTHER PROCESSING:

This week look for moments when you’re operating out of an earning mentality, practice naming them.

Out of the 3 which is hardest for you to accept: You are chosen, you are redeemed, you are secure?

Spend time in adoration and gratitude. Intentionally and specifically thank the Father for how he has lavishly loved you.