QT 8/26/2026 Eph 2:4–7, Changing the focus

Ephesians 2:4–7 (ESV) —

4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

 

NOTE: We were legitimately under God's wrath according to the preceding verses (2:1-3). Verse 4 sets up the contrast, "but God …." Because God is rich in mercy (meaning we don't get what we should deserve), and because of his great love for us (not based on anything we had done -- grace!), even when we were spiritually DEAD, made us alive in Jesus. We are raised up with God and seated with God in the heavenly places because of Jesus. What does that mean? It is actually a future physical state and a current spiritual state. We are changed inwardly such that we have new goals and new desires, spiritual goals and God's will. But physically, we are still on earth. The author states it in the past because of the assurity of the statement. In other words, it is a done deal. We will realize it in the coming ages, but from God's perspective, it has already been accomplished.

 

We need to recognize that our hope in the future kingdom is an absolute certainty. In fact John writes:

 

1 John 3:2–3 (ESV) — 2 Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. 3 And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

 

This eschatological promise has a special benefit, it purifies us. When we stop living for the world and start living for our heavenly city, there is a purifying effect -- something every one of us should desire. It is good for our souls.

 

PONDER:

1. Life has many worries, concerns, and traps. How can we turn the channel (an old TV idiom) and start focusing on the Lord and not these temporary distractions?
2. Do I understand the undeserving nature of my salvation?

 

PRAYER: Father, for myself, I need to make the following verse a lifestyle practice.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (ESV) — 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 

Instead of a long prayer once a day, I need many short prayers throughout the day, thanking God, rejoicing, and asking for you to work in my life.