brokenness to purpose
This week we are beginning to dive into Ephesians 2 and boyyyy is it good!! So good, I am breaking it up into 2 parts like Ephesians 1. At this rate, we may be in Ephesians for 12 weeks LOL. But I really want to take our time as we go through Ephesians and really digest what Paul is saying. This week we are looking at Ephesians 2:1-10. Ephesians 2:1-10 speaks about transformation, grace, and purpose.
The first few verses of Ephesians paint a pretty intense picture of our lives before knowing Christ. It talks about being "dead in your transgressions and sins," which means being spiritually lifeless and separated from God. It illustrates how we used to follow the ways of the world, chasing after things that ultimately don't satisfy us.
Verse 2:2 uses the phrase “the prince of the power of the air”, that is referring to Satan. It’s his goal to lead us away from God. So when we follow the ways of this world, we are choosing to follow Satan. And at one point in our lives (and maybe certain points throughout), we embraced the “lusts of the flesh”.
It’s hard, I get it. We live in a world where it's easy to get caught up in the pressures and temptations around us—whether it's striving for success, seeking approval on social media, or indulging in fleeting pleasures.
"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved." Ephesians 2:4-5
Here's where everything changes. Despite our mistakes and shortcomings, God steps in with His immense love and mercy. He doesn't leave us in our broken state but offers us new life through Jesus Christ. This is what grace is all about—unearned, undeserved favor from God.
I’m sure there’s been a time when you felt undeserving of kindness, yet someone showed you compassion anyway. That's a little glimpse of God's grace. It's a powerful reminder that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to bring us back to life.
"And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:6-7
Not only does God save us, but He also elevates us. We're given a new identity in Christ, seated with Him in the heavenly realms. This means we have a position of honor and a destiny that goes beyond our earthly struggles. This is a call to rise above the mundane and the temporary. We're part of something bigger than ourselves. Our lives can reflect God's grace and kindness, showcasing His transformative power to others.
"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
Salvation is a gift. It's not something we can earn by our efforts or good deeds. We have to stop trying to make ourselves lovable to God, & just start receiving it. God started loving us when we were dead (2:5), He didn’t wait until we were lovable. We don't have to strive for perfection or fear failure. God's grace covers us, and our faith in Him is what connects us to this incredible gift. Your value is already secured by God's grace. You are enough because He says so.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
We're not just saved from something; we're saved for something. We are God's handiwork, His masterpiece, created to do good works. This means our lives have meaning and purpose beyond ourselves. Discovering and pursuing the purpose God has given you can be one of your greatest adventures. Whether it's through our careers, relationships, or service, we have the opportunity to live out the good works God has prepared for us. It's about using our unique gifts and passions to make a positive impact in the world.
Ephesians 2:1-10 starts with our brokenness and ends with our purpose. It’s a reminder that no matter where we've been or what we've done, God's grace is always available to us. And with that grace comes a new identity and a calling to make a difference.
