Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Holy Week
Ephesians 2
Ephesians 2 is a significant chapter in the bible because it illustrates part of the nature of Christianity. It shows the idea that people are saved through faith, not through their own works, but through the love of Christ. Ephesians 2 begins by talking about how humanity was dead or separated from God, because people lived for the world. People were disobedient and focused more on the pleasures of the world than oneness with God. Paul mentions that people were so centered on satisfying the desires of the flesh, that humanity was deserving of wrath. However, it is through the love of Christ and God’s great mercy, that we can be seated with him and not succumb to death for our transgressions against him.
Ephesians 2: 8-9 is an important group of verses to every Christian. In these verses, we see several important words: grace, faith, and gift. In order to understand the significance of this verse, it is vital to understand what those three words mean. Grace means favor or kindness given to one without merit or having proved worthy of it. Faith as defined in Hebrews 11:1 is “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” In other words, it is wholeheartedly believing in something, even if we can’t see it in front of us. Lastly, gift means something that is given to someone without expectations in return. This once again highlights the idea that we are given salvation, not because of our accomplishments, but through Christ’s love. God’s salvation is for everyone and not given to individuals simply based on what they have done in life.
Later on, we see Paul talking about the Jew and the Gentile being reconciled through Christ. The Jews and Gentiles were previously hostile people towards each other, but Paul talks about how the Gentiles, who were once far away from Christ, have been brought near through Christ’s love for us. Jesus has helped unite those who are near and far from God, in one body in peace. Through Jesus, people are no longer divided but members in the body of Christ. We are all components of the Church, with Christ as its cornerstone and foundation for which we can all stand together. Through Christ we are built as a dwelling in which the Holy Spirit can shine through each of us.
Ephesians 2: 8-9 is an important group of verses to every Christian. In these verses, we see several important words: grace, faith, and gift. In order to understand the significance of this verse, it is vital to understand what those three words mean. Grace means favor or kindness given to one without merit or having proved worthy of it. Faith as defined in Hebrews 11:1 is “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” In other words, it is wholeheartedly believing in something, even if we can’t see it in front of us. Lastly, gift means something that is given to someone without expectations in return. This once again highlights the idea that we are given salvation, not because of our accomplishments, but through Christ’s love. God’s salvation is for everyone and not given to individuals simply based on what they have done in life.
Later on, we see Paul talking about the Jew and the Gentile being reconciled through Christ. The Jews and Gentiles were previously hostile people towards each other, but Paul talks about how the Gentiles, who were once far away from Christ, have been brought near through Christ’s love for us. Jesus has helped unite those who are near and far from God, in one body in peace. Through Jesus, people are no longer divided but members in the body of Christ. We are all components of the Church, with Christ as its cornerstone and foundation for which we can all stand together. Through Christ we are built as a dwelling in which the Holy Spirit can shine through each of us.
Prayer
I pray that we won’t take your grace for granted. We acknowledge that we are not worthy of your mercy and love towards us. Help us all to be united as members of your Church and live lives acceptable to you Father.
Amen
Amen
Jeron Chacko
St. John's Mar Thoma Church, NY
St. John's Mar Thoma Church, NY