
The book of Ephesians discusses mankind’s flaws and sinful nature, indicating a hopeless reality regarding where eternity would be for those who do not know Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Savior (chapter 2). We are informed of mankind being “dead in transgressions and sins” while following “the ways of this world and the ruler of the kingdom of the air” and how that deadly satanic influence is “at work in those who were disobedient” (Ephesians 2:1-2). There is also discussion about humanity “gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts,” which “were by nature deserving of wrath” (Ephesians 2:3). Humanistic qualities may have a devastating outcome! Is there hope? Let’s explore further!
God demonstrates His grace to humanity in many ways: love, kindness, mercy, and patience (to name a few of many amazing qualities). The Bible tells us that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whosoever believes in Him would have eternal life (John 3:16). The Bible reflects that despite mankind’s sinful nature, God demonstrates his love as well as his mercy and desire to provide humanity with a means of salvation through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5).
The Bible tells us that if we repent from our sins and ask Jesus Christ to be our Lord and personal Savior, we will achieve salvation and be cleansed from all unrighteousness! If we profess with our mouths that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in our hearts God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved (Romans 10:9-10). Also, as we read through Ephesians 2, we understand God loves us and through His mercy and “Gift” has provided a path of salvation: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Thank you, Father God, for Your Grace, manifested through Your Son, Jesus Christ!
As I have achieved salvation through following what the Bible teaches, then what? As Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior and my role model, I should read the Bible and learn as much as I can about Jesus and seek to be like Him. As you read about Him in the New Testament, you see that He was continually doing work that He valued which involved taking care of humanity. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) gives us a clue: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” If you are unsure what work to do, consider what gifts and skills God has given you and explore extending those to others who have needs. If you’re still unsure, consider what Jesus told Peter to do (John 21) – take care of His lambs and feed His sheep. That’s a good beginning! Thank you, Father God, for your Grace demonstrated through your Son, Jesus Christ!
Many blessings to you!
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
© 2021-2023
A Faithful Sower Publishing
Limited Liability Company
All Rights Reserved