Listen: iTunes | Spotify | Download || Read: Ephesians 1:3-14
This Week’s Songs:
– Kaden Slay, Jennie Lee Riddle, et al.
– Charity Gayle, Joshua Sherman, et al.
– Todd Dulaney
– Ben Fielding & Brooke Ligertwood
Read Ephesians 1:3-14
Ephesians 1 speaks to our understanding of identity. What are the ways we are encouraged to find our identity apart from God? How would you describe our culture’s pursuit and philosophy around personal identity?
The phrase “in Christ” appears 164 times in the Paul’s letters – and is the foundation of our new identity. What do you think it means to be in Christ… and what does it mean for us?
Ephesians 1:3 says we’ve been blessed in Christ with “every spiritual blessing.” What do you think it would look like from you to live from this place of spiritual abundance as opposed to the scarcity of not having everything you need?
Verse 7 tells us we have redemption in Christ – a freedom from slavery purchased by the blood of Christ. What places of spiritual slavery have you been freed from… and where are you still seeking freedom?
In verses 13-14, the Holy Spirit is presented as the deposit, or down payment, of our future inheritance that is experienced in the present. What are the implications for our walk with Christ? How does this change the way you understand the work of the Spirit in your life?
Lectio Devina (Praying The Scriptures). Blessed. Chosen. Adopted. Redeemed. Forgiven. Sealed. Each of these words describe our identity in Christ in Ephesians 1. This week, allow these promises to guide your prayer time. Take one of the words above each day and, as you meditate of the Ephesians 1 passage, focus your prayer on this concept of your identity in Jesus. Ask the Spirit to reveal a deeper sense of identity in Christ as you seek Him.