Many times, when speeches, sermons, lectures or books are written, the introduction is written last. When the body and conclusion of the writing is completed then the introduction gives a brief, succinct outline of what is to follow or what can be expected by the readers or listeners.
Perhaps this is what Paul did when he wrote to the believers in Ephesus:
(NASB) Ephesians 1:3
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us, with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ…”
What is so amazing about God’s choice?
We were chosen before the world was created! We were set apart and without sin in the sight of God Who is Holy and without sin. Amazing!
(NASB) Ephesians 1:4
“just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.”
In Christ we are:
Chosen! Holy! Without blame!
Blessed indeed!
(NASB) Ephesians 1:5
“He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will.”
Loved indeed!
(NASB) Ephesians 1:6
“to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.”
Glorious grace of God indeed!
(NIV) Ephesians 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
God’s grace…freely given in Christ Jesus!
Just as Paul began his letter to the Ephesians with a summary of what was to follow how would someone write of your life to this point in time, how would they summarize it?
Would it be for the praise of God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ?
