Colossians 2:10-15

It is important that we do not take these other passages too far in applying them. There are still distinctions in the world and in the church, however, in salvation there is no distinction. All have to come though Jesus Christ. All must fight sin. The Jews had an advantage of the scriptures, but they still must die to old self and put on the new. It did not matter who had advantage in this world and who did not. All must put off the old self and put on the new self in Christ. It is easy for us to fall into the trap Paul is writing about here. We can look at those in the world or new Christians and say “This is for you.”, however, the putting off of the old self and putting on the new self is something we have to do for our whole lives. It is something we continually look for Christ to help us do. It is not for others. It is for you.

Colossians 2:9

Before we come to Christ, we might be good people in the eyes of the world, but not according to the standard of God. All of us walked in these earthly ways. We can not say “That person needs to do this” or “Those people need to do this.” Each of us must kill the sin in ourselves through the help of Jesus Christ. Paul expands the idea of what needs to be avoid specifically. “Anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie”. These seem to be specifically targeting sins of the mouth. Christ changes us from inside out. Heart and Mouth must put off old self and ways and put on the new self which is found in Christ. We are renewed to be like our creator who is holy and perfect. We die to our sinful and worldly self.

Colossians 2:8

Note well the strong language Paul uses in making his point: put to death. We are not to play with sinful thoughts or acts. Notice the list that Paul gives us. They are a list of heart issues that flow out through our words and actions. He calls this idolatry because these are things in your life that you are putting before the Lord. God hates this and He is a wrathful God. His is not an angry hateful human like wrath. God has a perfect, just, and holy wrath against sin and sinners. Christ died to set you free from these. Christian, you have power over these sinful, earthly things because you are in union with Christ. Here is real hope and help.

Colossians 2:6-7

While it is true that we can become so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good, it is equally true that we can become so focused on the things of earth that we do not seek the things that are above. Jesus tells us, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33).  You are an alien and a stranger in this world. It is not your home. We are to care about the things of this world, especially the people of this world, but we are not to get caught up in the things of this world. We want the world to honor Christ. We want people to know Jesus and His salvation. Our hope and our home is in heaven. This should give us perspective as we live our life in this world and wait on the one that is coming.

Colossians 2:1-5

We are in union with Christ’s death, resurrection, and life (Romans 6:3-5). Paul is telling you here that in Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world. You are now set free from the sinful world in which you live as a Christian. You are dead to the world and alive to Christ. Paul’s question is, “Why do you still live as though you are in the World?” There are those who will teach things that sound spiritual and good, yet they are a self-made religion that pushes you to asceticism (severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons) and sever actions and attitudes towards your physical body. These have no value in stopping sin. To do that, we must continue to look outside of ourselves (our work, our efforts, and our suffering) and look to Christ.

Colossians 1:24-29

There is a movement in some circles of the church to go backwards into the Old Testament food laws and ceremonies. There are many folks who are refusing to eat pork or shellfish. They are celebrating the old holy days of the Jews. This is not something we can or should be compelled to do. These all pointed to Christ’s coming and, now that we have Christ, we have no need of them anymore. All animals were declared clean in Peter’s vision (Acts 10:9-16). Often these efforts are an attempt to go backwards for the sake of spirituality. If we want a greater spirituality we must go forward to Christ. These are shadows! Christ is where the substance is.

Colossians 2:10-15

When Christ wins we will win too! We cannot overstate the importance of the connection we have in Christ. Paul states here that Christ is life for us. Often people will be asked, “What is your life? What is at the center of it?” They will answer with a spouse, family member, job, hobby, or the like, but the real center or real life for a Christian is to be Christ. He is our life here and now and Christ will be our victory there and then. When He appears in complete victory and judgement, this will be our victory too!

Colossians 2:9

Grace is not a cloud-like substance that floats around. It is not an impersonal power or force in our world. Grace is found in Jesus Christ. For us to have grace to be saved we must have Jesus and be in Jesus. Union with Christ is a key part of how we are saved. Our lives are hidden with Christ and in Him we are connected by the Spirit of God.  It is because of our connection to Christ that we are able to have His work credited to us and our sins taken away. It is by the real connection we have to the Son of God that our lives are transformed and we are held with God and His people forever.

Colossians 2:8

Where do you put your mind? There needs to be a part of your mind that is always aware that this world is not your home and you are not going to be here forever. Neither the individual nor the church will be in this world, as it is, forever. Because of our hope in Jesus, Paul says “if then you have been raised with Christ” we are to look to the things above. Christ is in heaven now. He is our surety of victory and salvation. We need to set our minds on the things that are above. This means that we have a vision of heaven and final victory in all we do. It does not mean that we ignore the world in which we live and where God has put us to be His witnesses and His people. If you read these devotions, please send me an email or text, or just let me know that you do.

Colossians 2:6-7

Paul acknowledges that there is a real appearance of spirituality in the teaching of some men. They call us to stand up and do something for Jesus’ sake, but they call us to deny ourselves in extreme ways. These ways were so extreme that Paul calls it severity to the body. Paul says these human means and ideas are of no value to stopping sin. They are self-made religion. The rules we follow as Christians are not made up by men, but rather commanded by God. At their root is love: love for God and love for man. God takes pleasure when we turn from our sinful ways to obey His commands. He does not take pleasure in our starving or denying ourselves in ways He has not told us to do.

Colossians 2:1-5

There are going to be people who try to lead us away from Christ. They are going to insist that we deny ourselves, leading us to look to ourselves in asceticism. Christ tells us to deny ourselves, but not in the way these false teachers will. They are arrogant in their visions and puffed up with pride at their own spirituality, but the growth that is from God is found in Jesus. He is the head, and the body grows in Christ. Do not be tempted to leave Christ or deviate from Him. We must hold fast to Christ if we want to grow strong in God.

Colossians 1:24-29

There are some in our world today who want us to go back to the Jewish dietary laws found in the Old Testament. There was also an issue of how to address  meat offered as a sacrifice to idols and then sold. These issues found in the Old Testament were shadows of things to come. Christ fulfilled the shadows and overcame the idols. We find our fullness and sufficiency in Christ alone and not in the things of this world:  in eating and drinking or in outward observations. The Lord has set one holy day for His church and that is the Lord’s Day. He has declared all food good to eat. Do not go back to the old shadows when you have Christ, the light.

Colossians 2:10-15

This salvation is given to us ‘in’ Jesus Christ. When we are saved we are connected to Jesus. Paul shows us this in these verses. We are ‘filled in Him’, ‘in Him you were also circumcised’, ‘having been buried with Him in Baptism’, ‘raised with Him’, ‘made alive together with Him’.  We are in union with Christ. In John 15, Jesus teaches us that He is the vine and we are the branches. Our hope of salvation is not only in believing and trusting in Jesus. It is in our being connected to Him. Salvation works in us as we are in Jesus Christ. Are you in Jesus? Do you see His power working in you?

Colossians 2:9

The doctrine of Christ’s two natures is foundational to the Christian life. One reason we have the Nicene creed, which we say in our Worship services at the end of every month, is because it was written to address a heresy on this matter. ‘The whole fullness of deity’ means that the person of Jesus is fully God. ‘Dwells bodily’, means that the person of Jesus is fully man. The reason this is important is because our salvation is based on Jesus taking our place. To take our place on the cross he had to be man. To take our sins and pay them He had to be sinless God. This is accomplished in the one person of Jesus and His two natures.

Colossians 2:8

In our world today, there are many who want to argue with Christians using the philosophies of man, or scientific facts, or by just outright lies against Christ. We must see that Christ is above creation. He is above the thinking of man and the scientific knowledge of man. He is above the outright hatred and falsehood of man in his fallen and evil state. However, we must be careful that we do not fall prey to bad or even dishonest arguments. G. K. Chesterton was quoted as saying, “Do not be so open-minded that your brains fall out.” The point is that we are to keep our focus and hope in Christ, trusting Christ and His Word above the wisdom of this world.

Colossians 2:6-7

This is a significant passage in the book of Colossians. Paul is drawing a conclusion by saying, “therefore”. He is instructing them in how they are to continue in the faith. The Christian life starts with Jesus Christ. You receive Jesus by believing and trusting in Him. Paul is saying that you must continue in Jesus. Christ is not just a door into the faith. He is the way in and through the faith. We are to be rooted in Jesus and to grow and be built up in Jesus. Once you are saved, the focus does not leave Christ. It remains here, and we stand in His work and in His commands by His strength.

Colossians 2:1-5

One aspect of Paul’s ministry is to bring Christians to full assurance of salvation and trust in Christ. Here he speaks specifically of the church at Laodicea, yet it is a need for all Christians. You need to know what you believe. You need to have a full assurance that you are saved. Without knowledge and full assurance of Christ, we are open to attack by what Paul calls plausible arguments. If you are going to grow in your Spiritual life walking with Christ, then you need to be assured of the foundation that it is built upon, your salvation in Christ.

Colossians 1:24-29

Have we lost the idea that ministry is hard? The idea of the Church militant, that is, the church fighting against sin, evil, and Satan’s kingdom, was rediscovered in the Reformation.  Paul’s life is given completely for this purpose of proclaiming the Gospel and maturing the church. This was his passion. Are we willing to suffer for the ministry? Are we willing to be inconvenienced for Jesus? Where do you need to let go of your rights, your comforts, and what you want for the sake of the lost and your church?

Colossians 1:23

We must continue on in the Gospel. You must continue in the way that you began. It is not a continuing in your works or in your attainment. It is a continuing in Christ by faith. It is a continuing in believing and trusting in Jesus Christ. We are called to be stable and steadfast in our faith. There is no other way to continue except in Christ. He is our hope in the beginning of our salvation, the middle of our salvation, and at the end. Jesus takes us all the way though to God. We show ourselves to be in Jesus when we stay in the faith and seek to please Him in all we do. Is this where you are? Is it your desire to please God in all you do?

Colossians 1:22b

Have you ever gone out only to find that you had a spot or stain on your clothes? It is embarrassing, and if bad enough, we will go home and change our clothes. We were covered with the stain of our sins. They had separated us from God. They weighed on us and were leading us to death in hell. Jesus, in saving us, makes us holy. He does not just take away your sins. He gives us the goodness of His life so that in this world, and most importantly before the judgement seat of God, you will be found holy, blameless, and above reproach.

Colossians 1:22a

We see Paul draw attention again to the importance of Jesus coming to be one of us. Jesus coming as a man is significant to His work as our savior. Paul restates and emphasizes that the death of Jesus was in the body of flesh. Jesus gave His real body to reconcile you to God and so that you may be presented before the Lord holy and blameless in Jesus. The only way sinful men can be found not guilty in the sight of the Lord is to be covered with the blood of Jesus. In Jesus you are reconciled to the Lord and to the Lord’s people. This is a major change in who you are. You are no longer hostile and alienated. Now you are reconciled to the one God because the one God came to save you!

Colossians 1:21

Our offense to God is real. Paul addresses this to the Christians in Colossae, telling them that they were once alienated and hostile in mind to God. It is easy for us to start thinking we have done something to aid, help, or cause our salvation. However, there is nothing farther from the truth. We are helpless. We were actively opposing God in our mind and by evil deeds. We need Jesus. He had to take our place and open our minds and draw us back to Himself. There is a real problem if you do not understand what Paul is talking about in verses 19-23. At the heart of this section is our salvation and that it comes directly from, and only from, knowing Jesus Christ and the works He did for you.

Colossians 1:20

Salvation is through Christ alone. He came to bring reconciliation and peace. There are many who see the church as just trying to get our market share of folks who buy into our philosophy. In reality, the message of the church is that we have offended a holy and just God with our sin. We stand in danger of His wrath and hell itself. We need to be reconciled to God! The only way this happens is by the blood of Jesus Christ. He came as a man, stood in our place, and took our death that we might have life. Do you see that salvation is in and by Jesus alone?

Colossians 1:19

Our salvation depends on Jesus being fully God. If Jesus is just a man like any other, His death has no power or ability to save. However, if Paul is correct that the fullness of God is in Jesus then He has the power to save you. It is because salvation was beyond the ability of any mere man. It took God becoming man. It was Jesus putting on flesh so that He could take our place. This is what Jesus did in our salvation. Jesus humbled Himself , but did not give up being God when He took on flesh. He is fully man and fully God. This is a critical doctrine for your salvation.

Colossians 1:18

Paul’s focus moves from the whole world to the church. If the whole world holds together in Christ, then it is logical that the church finds its power in Christ. He is the  head of the church. Paul ties in Jesus’ resurrection (firstborn from the dead) as further proof  of Christ’s power. Paul goes on to state that in everything Jesus should have preeminence. He is eternal God, creator God, and sustainer God. He is the head of the church. He is the one who has saved us and the pathfinder who has blazed a way for us in His resurrection from the dead. Now that you have Jesus, do not turn back to the Old Testament shadows and ceremonies. When you have the spiritual reality of Jesus Christ given to you in the Gospel, do not settle for an outward religion of physical beauty of sights, sounds, and smells. 

Colossians 1:17

In the Star Wars movies, there is an impersonal power called “The Force”. This fictional power upholds the whole universe and many say it is based on eastern religions and philosophies. However, there is a real power that holds the world together and His is Jesus Christ. In the first part of verse 17, we see that Jesus is before all things. He is eternal. He is the creator in verse 16. Paul teaches us that all things hold together in Jesus Christ (17b). There are many who want to say that God created the world and then walked away or at least steppe d back. However, this is not what the Bible teaches. This is not what Paul says. The whole world is held together in Jesus. Again, is this the Jesus you believe in? Is this the Jesus that you worship?

Colossians 1:21

Our offense to God is real. Paul addresses this to the Christians in Colossae, telling them that they were once alienated and hostile in mind to God. It is easy for us to start thinking we have done something to aid, help, or cause our salvation. However, there is nothing farther from the truth. We are helpless. We were actively opposing God in our mind and by evil deeds. We need Jesus. He had to take our place and open our minds and draw us back to Himself. There is a real problem if you do not understand what Paul is talking about in verses 19-23. At the heart of this section is our salvation and that it comes directly from, and only from, knowing Jesus Christ and the works He did for you.

Colossians 1:16

Many people have a wrong idea that the Father created the World and Jesus saved the world. However, both creation and salvation are actually the work of our triune God. In the creation of the world, Jesus had an active part. Paul writes that all things were created through Him and for Him. John echoes this idea in John 1:3 “All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made”. This clarifies the idea that Christ has power in this world by virtue of being God, the redeemer and creator of the world. This is your Jesus! This is your help whom you can trust, and who gave Himself to redeem you by His life and work on the cross and in the empty grave. Do you see this Jesus?

Colossians 1:15

What a powerful verse! Christ is the image of the invisible God. The Children’s catechism teaches us that “God is a spirit and does not have a body like man”, yet God became man in the person of Jesus Christ. He took on flesh to be our Savior. He is also the firstborn over all creation. Jesus is eternal God, yet in order or status of creation, He is the highest of all because He is the God Man. The firstborn was the one who inherited the Father’s possessions. All of Creation is Christ’s by virtue of who He is as God’s beloved Son. We praise God because of His love for us that paid the price of our sin. He pursued us even when we were in our sin so that we, by His grace,  might be His now. Praise God for His great love for you!

Colossians 1:11-14

There is a reason we should be producing Gospel fruit. We have been delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred to the Kingdom of Christ. In Jesus we have strength which leads to endurance and patience and joy. We can then thank God who has done this work in us. The Gospel does not weaken us. It is seen as such in the world’s eyes because they cannot understand or see the power of the Gospel. The Gospel gives us all we need in this world. Do you see Gospel fruit in your life? Do you know that you have been transformed from the domain of darkness and sin to the Kingdom of Christ, His redemption, and forgiveness?

Colossians 1:6-10

It is important to understand that the Gospel bears fruit in your life. This is how a true believer is shown to be different from a false believer. The Gospel real and life changing. Paul says that the whole world bears fruit and that those in Colossae are bearing it as well. It is his prayer for them that they will be filled with Godly knowledge (9) and walk in a worthy manner and bearing fruit in their lives (10). It is the prayer and desire of every Christian pastor to see individuals growing in their knowledge of God, living lives that show the fruit of knowing Jesus and the power of His Gospel. Where is your life bearing Gospel fruit? Where is it bearing rotten fruit?

Colossians 1:5

Hope is a key aspect to the Christian life. Our faith is a hope in the promises of Jesus Christ found in the Word of truth; the Gospel. The Christian faith is not just a philosophy or approach to living life. It is a hope of being transformed now and of eternal life in heaven with God. When you understand what your faith is in Jesus, and what is yours in Jesus by faith, then you have a hope that drives you in this life. Where is your hope?  Is it driven by your faith?

Colossians 1:4

Faith without works is dead says James. Paul, in reference to the church at Colossae, speaks of their faith which shows itself in the love they have for the saints. Faith is not a passive assent or trust. It works itself out in life. Faith is belief in Jesus Christ and His transformative salvation working in the life of the Christian. If you have faith then you will be like the Colossians and have love for God and His people.

  

Colossians 1:3

How is your prayer life? Do you jump straight into the things you need? Do you have a fully developed prayer life? It is important for us to see that our prayers are more than just requests. We need to praise God for who He is and we need to confess our sins before Him. Here Paul tells the Christians at Colossae that he has been giving thanks for them when he prays for them. Thanksgiving is an important part of your prayers too. Make sure that you are giving enough time and effort in your prayers for the things and people you are thankful for in your life.

Colossians 1:2b

The need for grace and peace are clear in Paul’s opening greetings as he prays for them to have grace and peace from God. This only comes through Jesus Christ and what He has done. We are saved only by grace. Grace is God giving us all that we need when we did not deserve or earn it. Peace with God is crucial and necessary. This peace can only come when we deal with our sins, and the only way to deal with our sins is by faith in Jesus Christ.

Colossians 1:2a

This letter is addressed to the Christians at Colossae. Why are Christians called saints? It is because we are saved by the grace of God in Jesus Christ. It is not because we have earned anything, but because God has made us saints by His grace. Note well that Christians are also called brothers, as we have a common adoption in our salvation. God is our Father and Christ is our brother. We, who are called and have believed in Him, are all brothers and sisters in Christ.

Colossians 1:1

In the Ancient Near East, it was the custom to sign a letter at the beginning, whereas today we sign at the end. This letter was written by Paul to the church at Colossae. In this opening verse, we learn that Paul is an Apostle. He is unique because unlike the other Apostles, Paul was called to be an Apostle after Christ’s death and resurrection. He was on his way to persecute the Christians in Damascus when Christ appeared to him and called him to be a Christian himself. This is why he says an Apostle by the will of God. God had called him in a way that was distinct from the other Apostles.

Ephesians 2:19-22

Paul uses a great illustration to show how all believers, Jew and Gentile, are connected in the church.  All Christians are part of a holy temple for the Lord.  The Bible is the foundation of the church.  It is the basis for everything we do. It is our guide to know God and how to live the Christian life. Christ is the cornerstone, without whom the temple will fall. It is upon Him that everything is built, and without Jesus, there is no church.  This is what the church looks like.  It is built on Christ and the Bible, and made up of fellow believers who work together to bring glory to God.  Is Christ your cornerstone? Is your life built upon Scripture? You can’t build a house with one brick, you need many.  Do you see the Christian life as something you do by yourself, or do you find joy in working with others who are building up the Lord?

Ephesians 2:17-18

The connection that all Christians share is the Holy Spirit. Whether one is far off or near, we are all connected to God through His Spirit by the work of Christ. No matter where we are, the Spirit is with us, giving us a direct line to God. What a wonderful thing to have unlimited access to our Lord and Savior. Where we were once cut off, now that connection is restored. Our prayers do not go unanswered for we have access to God. He hears and answers our prayers. He provides us strength and comfort in times of trouble. He provides us courage when we face temptation. He gives us hope when everything seems hopeless. All of this is made possible through the Holy Spirit working in us, reminding us that we have been given peace in Christ. Do you make use of the access you have with God? Do you find comfort and encouragement in knowing that the Spirit of God is alive in you?

Ephesians 2:14-16

In Israel, there was a division between Jews and Gentiles. This division caused animosity among the two groups. However, Paul explains that Jesus has brought peace between the two groups. He has taken both Jew and Gentile and joined them in one body, the church. The hostility has ceased, and they now work side by side, not as Jew or Gentile, but as Christians. The wonderful thing about the church is that Christians come in all different shapes and sizes. We all have different backgrounds and circumstances, but we all share faith in Christ. All divisions are put to the side when one is a part of the church. Both the man raised in the church and the man who has been to prison can be a part of the church with the same footing. Paul reminds us to not look at our differences, but to our common faith in Christ. Do you look at the outside of a person, or do you look at the heart which has professed faith in Christ?

Ephesians 2:13

Paul fast-forwards to the present in which the Ephesians are now in Christ. Jesus has taken them from a state outside the people of God and brought them in. This was not just an invitation handed out inviting them in. This change of status was bought for them through Jesus’ own blood. Because of Jesus, we too have now have been brought into the fold. We have been given membership into the people of God. We were cut off because of our sin, but we have been restored through the grace of Christ. We, who were without hope, now have assurance in Christ who has redeemed us by His blood. Have you trusted in Jesus, so that you have become a part of God’s people?

Ephesians 2:11-12

Here, Paul talks about the Ephesian’s previous state. They were uncircumcised Gentiles, which meant they were not a part of the people of God. They did not know the promise of God’s covenants, and they were without hope. They were separated from God, and this reminds us that we were once just like the Ephesians. Because of our sin, we are cut off from God, and we have no hope. We need Jesus, and reflecting on where we were before Christ makes us love Him even more. Do you understand how helpless you are without Christ? Do you hold fast to Him as your only hope?

Ephesians 2:10

The ability of a Christian to live a Christ-like life does not come from himself. Paul explains that it is in Christ that we have been made able to do good works. It is not us, but Christ in us that enables us to live a righteous life. We have to understand that we are not good people.  Yes, we may do good deeds, but we also sin and break God’s law. We need to be changed by Christ, and once we are changed, we must walk in Christ’s ways. We aren't perfect and never will be on this side of Heaven, but the Holy Spirit continues to work in us each day to help us put off our sin and live for Jesus. Have you been changed by Jesus? Are you relying on Him to change your heart and walk with Him?

Ephesians 2:8-9

Paul reminds us why we have been saved. Many think that being a good person will get them into Heaven. However, Paul explains that salvation is not a result of good works. Salvation is a gift that has been freely offered. Remember that God did not have to save us, but He is full of grace and mercy. He sent Jesus to save us, and those that call upon the name of Christ will be saved. This reminds us that although we may do good things, we are still sinners in need of a Savior. All the good things that we do don't earn our way to Heaven. The only way to be saved is through faith in Christ. We cannot boast in our good works, for we have all still sinned. However, we can boast in our Lord, that He is the one who saved us. Have you thought that you could earn your way into Heaven? Seeing that you cannot, have you put your faith in Christ, who purchased your salvation by His blood?

Ephesians 2:6-7

We have been given a new spiritual life through Jesus. Paul points to the future when we will experience the riches of His grace. We often look forward to Heaven, where there will be no more weeping or sadness, only the joy of being with our Lord for all eternity. Being raised in Christ, this life will last for an eternity. This assurance of things to come gives us hope when we face struggles in our lives. Whatever we may be going through, we have the hope that we have been saved and will be with Jesus forever, experiencing the immeasurable riches of God’s grace. Do you feel hopeless right now? Does it seem like the world is bearing down on you? Remember that this life will not last forever, but the next life will be one of gladness and joy that will never end.

Ephesians 2:5

Lazarus was not the only person Jesus brought back to life. When one trusts in Jesus as his Savior, Christ brings him out of the spiritual death he once walked in to newness of life. Being dead in our sin, we could not make the choice to trust in Christ, for we would be unable to choose Him. The Holy Spirit works in us to show the evil of our sin and bears us along to faith in Christ. We now are enabled to live for Jesus because He has restored us. We no longer walk as the world does, but we walk with the one who has given us life. We have been united with Jesus through His death and resurrection, having been brought from death to life ourselves. We have been made into a new creation through Jesus, no longer dead to our sin, but alive in Christ.

Ephesians 2:4

Paul uses the word “but” here with huge emphasis. We were dead in our trespasses and sins. We deserved wrath, BUT God, who is rich in mercy, loved us so much that He did something about our fallen state. This shows us a large part of God’s character. We deserved to be punished for our sins, but God chose to save us. He was not obligated to do this, but He did so because He loved us that much. We do not deserve salvation. God doesn't owe us anything, but in spite of all the evil we have done, God cared for us and sent Jesus to save us. Have you come to know the great love God has for you? Have you embraced that love by believing in Jesus?

Ephesians 2:1-3

Paul explains the dire situation the Ephesians were once in. They were dead in their trespasses and sins, without realizing they were dead. Dr. Mark Ross refers to this as being a “spiritual zombie.” They were still walking around, but were spiritually dead on the inside. They lived for the world and its pleasures, and deserved punishment because of this. We have all broken God’s Law, and face His wrath. Things may seem to be going great in your life, but without Jesus you are in a lot of trouble. We need a Savior to rescue us from our sins. Do you see the problem with sin in your life? Have you trusted in Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you looked to Him as the only one who can save you from your sins?

Ephesians 1:21-23

Paul show us that Christ has been exalted as the head of all things. He rules over the world, all the creatures, and believers and unbelievers alike. There is nothing is outside of Christ’s control. Because of this, the name of Jesus Christ is above all names. It is above the nations, above the president, and above every person of power in this world. All must answer to the Lord Jesus Christ, both those that trust in Him and those that don’t. Paul shows that those who do trust in Him for their salvation and recognize Him as Lord will share in His rule. Where He is the head, the Christians are the body. We have been enabled to share because we have a gracious Lord who is willing to share in His reign with us. Have you recognized Christ as your Lord? Have you acknowledged Him as greater than the sins in your life?

Ephesians 1:19b-20

Paul reminds the Ephesians of God’s might in the work of Jesus. Through His power, Jesus defeated sin and death, and this is signified by His resurrection and ascension. This is the mighty God that we serve. He has power over sin and death. He has the power to save us. It is through the work of Jesus Christ that all these blessings mentioned are attained. He is our assurance and hope. He is our inheritance. He is the one who has the power to take us from our chains of bondage and set us free. This is why we need to trust in Christ. It is only He that is capable of doing these things. Remembering the might of God helps us find comfort and strength no matter what we are facing. It is like a beacon on a dark night guiding us as we walk through this earthly life. Do you believe that God is mighty enough to save you? Do you trust in Him in your daily life to help you overcome your struggles?

Ephesians 1:19a

The final blessing that Paul mentions is God’s power toward those who believe. The Ephesians were worried about supernatural forces through magic and the occult, but Paul reminds them that God is greater than these things. If God is for us, then who can be against us? God is omnipotent, or all-powerful, and He is constantly protecting us from Satan. This should be an encouragement for us. No matter what Satan tries, nothing can snatch us out of God’s hands. Yes, we are all still tempted by the devil, but we can overcome Him through reliance on the Lord. The power of the living God in Christ trumps all that would see us come to ruin.

Ephesians 1:18b

The second of the blessings that Paul mentions is that we have the inheritance of God. This is not our own inheritance, but it is God’s inheritance that is shared with us because of Christ. We may spend our lives gaining wealth here on earth, and getting that wealth may drive us. Even if we don't have the big house on the hill or the fancy car, Paul reminds us that we have been given the riches of God that surpass anything this world can offer us. This helps us to understand that the things of God are better than the things of man, and it encourages us to know that we have been given that inheritance because we are God’s sons and daughters, who were adopted through the work of Jesus. Your bank account might not be filled with money, but Christ has made you more wealthy than you realize. 

Ephesians 1:18a

Paul begins to list the blessings that are given through faith in Christ that we can know because our hearts have been enlightened. The first of these is hope. We have hope and assurance in our salvation. Where we were once doomed to face the punishment for our sin, Jesus has snatched us from the fire and saved us. We have the assurance of being in Heaven with Him for all eternity. It is this hope that helps us through our daily struggles. We still live in a fallen world filled with hardship, coldness, and strife. However, we have this hope that reminds us that, no matter what we are going through, we can rest in the promise of our Savior. How can your hope in Jesus help you through what you may be facing?

Ephesians 1:17

Sometimes when we get a good grasp on the Bible we may think that we know it all. We stop studying Scripture or paying attention in church because we think we already know this stuff. Paul acknowledges that God gives us wisdom and knowledge of Him through His Spirit. It is by the Spirit that we come to know Jesus, and it is through the Spirit that we continue to grow. We have an infinite glass to fill when it comes to spiritual growth. Just because we know a Bible story, this does not mean that we don't need to read it again. The Spirit shows us new things every time we read it, thus meaning that you do not know it all. The Christian life is one of constant growth in our knowledge and relationship with Christ, and we will never know it all. If this is your attitude, pick up your Bible, and I guarantee the Spirit will show you something you had not thought of before.

Ephesians 1:15-16

What a great thing it is when someone believes in Jesus Christ. This is cause for rejoicing, and that is exactly what Paul is doing. He is giving thanks for his fellow believers coming to faith. He also keeps them in his prayers. Paul knows that the Christian life is not complete after one believes. They must grow in their knowledge and love of Christ. They must continue to work out their salvation by putting off sin and putting on Christ, and Paul prays that God would do these things in their lives. As Christians, we have to continue to grow and progress in our faith. We have to daily call on the Lord to help us in this. Are you growing in your faith? Are you asking Jesus to help you overcome the sin in your life?

Ephesians 1:14

Paul mentions that the Ephesians are sealed in the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the guarantee of the inheritance we receive as sons and daughters of God. We will not see all of this inheritance until we reach heaven, but the Spirit assures us of this. The Holy Spirit is the “down payment” of the inheritance that we will have in heaven. His presence in our life is God assuring us that every blessing He has promised will be ours. Although we will receive more, the Holy Spirit is an amazing blessing. He helps guide us each and every day, making us more like Christ. He provides us with a direct line to Christ as we pray. He provides strength and comfort as we face temptation and trials. The Holy Spirit is something we should cherish. Do you cherish the Holy Spirit in your life or do you take Him for granted?

Ephesians 1:12-13

Paul is speaking to the Christians at Ephesus.  These were Gentiles, and they were not part of the nation of Israel. However, Paul shows that they are part of the family of God. When he mentions “we who were the first to hope in Christ”, Paul is talking about the Jews, who heard the Gospel first, but then he mentions in verse 13 that the Gentile Ephesians had believed and were saved. One of the greatest blessings of the Gospel is that it does not matter where you come from, your background, your ethnicity, your job, so on and so forth. All that matters is faith in Jesus Christ. If you feel inadequate, remember that Paul, who was an apostle, called himself the chief of all sinners and he was forgiven. There are no conditions on our faith. The only thing salvation requires is to repent of your sin and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Have you trusted in Him?

Ephesians 1:11

Through faith in Christ, we have obtained an inheritance with Christ. We have been adopted into the family of God and become younger brothers and sisters of the heir of all things, Jesus Christ, for all things are ours in Him. From before the beginning of time, God predestined us to be His sons and daughters, and we have been restored to Him because of Jesus. You may not come from an affluent background. You may have not had much growing up, but you are sons and daughters of the Heavenly King. Those who believe in Christ and trust in Him for their salvation are brought into God’s family, and they will share His inheritance which is much greater than any earthly inheritance.

Ephesians 1:10

God has revealed His will through Christ, but how? When Adam and Eve sinned, they fell along with all creation. God’s plan was to bring all of creation back to its original state, being united to Him, through Christ. Jesus’ atonement on the cross reconciled both God’s people and His creation with Him. This is why Jesus is so important. It is only through Him that both we and creation itself could be restored to the state of righteousness before the Fall. Jesus Christ is the crux  by which God’s purposes of redemption are fulfilled.

Ephesians 1:9

God is an omniscient, all-knowing, God, and He will always know more than us. However, there are things that God has made known about Himself and His purposes through the Bible. He has been revealing His will little by little, as we see in the Old Testament, but now His will is fully known because everything in the Old Testament points to Christ. The entire Bible from cover to cover is about Jesus and God’s plan to save His people. We can see there is a God by looking at creation, but we need the Bible to show us God’s revelation of Jesus Christ. This mystery has been brought to light in Jesus through God’s Word to us.  

Ephesians 1:7-8

Paul explains to the Ephesians that they have redemption and forgiveness for their trespasses because of the blood of Christ and the grace of God that has been poured out upon them. We love our accomplishments, whether it be trophies, certificates, plaques, etc. These things all highlight something we have done. However, there is not a single thing we have done to accomplish our salvation. It is all through Christ and by His grace that we have been saved. You may have done some great things in your life, but you have done nothing, and will not be able to do anything, to earn your salvation. Because of this, we should love Christ all the more. We owe our lives to Him. We owe our salvation to Him. We owe everything to Him, and this should be our response. Are you glorifying Christ in your daily life for who He is and what He has done for you that you couldn't do for yourself?

Ephesians 1:6

God’s ultimate purpose is not redemption in itself, but praise of His glorious name through redemption. The Westminster Catechism says that the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. This is why we were created, but sin got in the way. Sin cut us off from God so we could no longer enjoy Him and were unable to glorify Him. Through redemption in Christ, we come to see our sin and rely on Jesus. Through Christ, our relationship with God is restored, and as we grow in our knowledge and love for Him, we begin to glorify Him and praise His name for who He is and what He has done for us. When we see how blessed we are because of God’s love for us, we cannot help but shout praises to the Lord. Do your praise the Lord for all He has done for you? Do you glorify Him and praise His name daily or do you take it for granted?

Ephesians 1:4-5

We like to think that we are in control of everything, but these verses remind us that God is always in control. Before the beginning of time He set us apart to be His people. We have been predestined to come to know Jesus Christ as our Savior, so we may be holy and blameless when we go to Heaven. It is awesome to know that we, in our sinful ways, cannot screw that up. God has determined us to be His people from the very beginning, and there is nothing that can get between Him and us. Your salvation is secure because of God’s providence, and there is nothing you can do to lose it. God’s purposes always come to pass, and this should encourage us when we face adversity and suffering. Although we may be weak, we know God is strong and in control. Do you find comfort in God’s providence? How can you better rely on God when things are out of your control in your own life?

Ephesians 1:3

Paul turns his thanks to God by thanking Him for the blessings given to us by Jesus Christ. We have been blessed beyond all measure with every spiritual blessing we can think of. We have been saved by Jesus and given the blessing of the Holy Spirit in us that connects us with God. We may tend to overlook these spiritual blessings and pay more attention to what the world would call blessings, however, worldly blessings will waste away while our spiritual blessings are eternal. Are you blessing God for the spiritual blessings in your life, or are you taking them for granted? Are you concerned about monetary things, or are you constantly meditating on the spiritual gifts of God?

Ephesians 1:2

Paul prays for grace and peace for the Ephesians. We don't come across grace and peace  like something you pick up at the store. Grace and peace are blessings given to us from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We are given grace because Christ represented us and paid our punishment, a gift we didn't deserve. We find peace in knowing that, no matter what is going on in our lives, we have the assurance of salvation in Christ. We try to find peace in the world, but it won’t give us the same peace only God can give.  Where do you find your peace?  Do you find it in Christ or in worldly things?  How can looking to Christ give you peace in your life?

Ephesians 1:1b

When we think of the word “saint”, we tend to think of the saints in the Bible or those dubbed with the title of “saint” by the Roman Catholic Church. In this verse, saints refer to those who are God’s people, those who have been set apart for Him. The church is made up of saints who are faithful to Christ. One who has put their trust and faith in Christ can be called a saint because he or she is deemed holy not by their own works but by Christ’s.  You may think that you are not qualified to be a saint because of the sin in your life. In fact, none of us are qualified, but we have been deemed worthy because of Christ. We still make mistakes, but the Spirit works in us to make us more like Christ each day. Paul does not see a saint as someone who is perfect, but one who has been set apart, and we have been set apart because of our faith.

Ephesians 1:1a

Paul begins his greeting to the Ephesians with his name and his calling by God to be an apostle. Paul did not choose to be an apostle on his own, but he was called by the will of God to do so. None of us are called to be apostles, but we have all been called by God for His purposes. Some of us are called to be pastors and to shepherd the people. Others have been called to teach in Sunday School or other classes. Some have been called to use their gifts and talents such as singing or playing an instrument. The list goes on and on. We are all called to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in some way, shape, or form. How are you sharing the Gospel with what God has given you? Even if you are not called to be a pastor, how can God use you in your own occupation and in the church?

Matthew 22:38-39

Jesus is asked, “What is the greatest commandment?” He responds with two. The greatest is to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. The second is to love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and prophets depend on these two commands. The Ten Commandments are an exposition of these two greatest commandments of Jesus. The First table, or four commandments, teaches us how to love God. The Second table, or last six commandments, teaches us how to love man. The Ten Commandments are not arbitrary rules to be obeyed. They are how we love God and man.

Exodus 20:17

The idea of coveting is a particularly bad sin because it is a sin of the heart and mind. It is a sin first and foremost against God Himself. If we believe that God is in control and blesses us in His providence, then to sinfully covet is to be unhappy with God. It also leads to other sins like stealing or even murder. King David coveted another man’s wife and it caused him to commit adultery, steal another man’s wife, lie, and murder. How wicked are our hearts and how careful we must watch and rule over them.

Exodus 20:16

 Do not lie. Some how we have a sliding scale for lying. There is an “innocent” white lie and then there is a “bold faced” lie. However, God’s word does not teach this sliding scale. Christians are called to speak truth, because they are the sons and daughters of a God who only speaks truth. We need to seek to be truth tellers. It is easy to keep compromising once you start. It is easy to start reasoning away what it is ok to tell, sharing half-lies, or not telling all the information so that technically you did not say anything false, but you lead to a false conclusion. This is still lying and is wrong in the eyes of a holy God.

Exodus 20:15

The Bible teaches about private property. We are to respect other people’s things. We are to be free and generous with our money and possessions. We are to use them to our good, but also the good of others. The command against stealing is not about just robbery, but also extends to other areas. One area that is often abused is in regard to time. If you are paid to do a job, you are to work hard at that job. This is another commandment where we see the World’s thinking starting to influence the Christian mindset. Are you being faithful with your possessions, time, and money?

Exodus 20:14

Sexual sin is rampant in our world today. Premarital sex is the norm. Pornography is an epidemic with both men and women. The idea of sexual purity that is taught by the Seventh Commandment and the Bible as a whole is lost on our generation. This is an area where we cannot surrender to the world’s understanding. Sexual sin is causing hurt and damage to people of all ages and degrees. God would have His people be pure in actions, thoughts, and words. Take a serious look at your life. Is it a life that is sexually pure?

Exodus 20:13

The command for us to not murder is an important one for all men and women to consider. It is easy to look at this as something we will never do. However, all of these have deeper meanings and further application than the literal words convey. This is clearly seen in Jesus’ expanding the commandment in Matthew 5:21-22. Here Jesus says that anyone who is angry with his brother has broken the commandment. This is not just a command against actual murder, but also those things that lead to murder and show no love for our fellow man. Consider your speech, your actions, your attitudes; do they lead to peace or strife?

Exodus 20:12

This is the transitional commandment. It is considered part of the second table of the law, but it clearly stands between the two. This commandment talks about honoring authority and uses the most basic idea of authority in human life, that of parents. We are to give honor to all authority from God. Our parents, elders, bosses, government officials, and all those God has placed in authority are due the honor of their office and station.

Exodus 20:8-11

The Christian Sabbath is called the Lord’s Day in the New Testament. It is the practice of the church to worship on the day of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. This also helps separate  Christians from the Jews. The idea of the Sabbath was not just a part of the ceremonial law. It is here in the Moral law and also as part of the creation mandate in Genesis. It is the day we are to Worship and the day we are to pull back from the busyness of all other days as much as we can to rest with God and His people.

Exodus 20:7

We are saved in the power of the Lord’s name. Acts 2:21 states that “… everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” It is the name of the one who has made all things, controls all things, and has saved us as His people. This is why we should not say flippant things using the name of God. It should be a name that is respected and honored when it comes from our lips. Sometimes this commandment gets condensed down to just being against “G— D—“, but it is much more than just that one phrase. It is the totality of how we use the name of our Lord.

Exodus 20:4-6

The Second commandment deals with Worship. How does God want to be worshipped? This commandment specifically deals with the idea of images. This is why we do not worship God with pictures, statues, video clips and things that make a visible representation of God. He has clearly  told us not to do that. This commandment also sets down the principle that Worship is to be done according to what God has said He wants in worship. Worship is not for your entertainment. It is about us giving and directing our praise to God and hearing Him speak to us.

Exodus 20:3

The first commandment is an often over looked commandment. It is easy to see the practical implications of how we use God’s name or how we keep the Lord’s day. Yet, it is easy to miss the things that compete with our devotion to God. It is easy to make anything an idol and put it ahead of God in importance in your life. Even good things like families, jobs, and hobbies should never come before God in importance. He is to be first and everything else is second.

Exodus 20:1-2

This is the preface to the Ten Commandments and the introduction to the Law of God. God is reminding His people of who He is and what He has done. Before we look at the Ten Commandments it is important to remember who has spoken these things to us. It is our God who has saved us from our sin. These are not ideas or philosophies of men. These are the Commandments of our personal God and Father in heaven.

Matthew 6:15

Jesus is very clear that if we do not forgive others, then we are not forgiven.  Matthew 18:23-25 tells us the parable of the unforgiving servant who did not forgive his fellow servant for not paying him even though he had been forgiven for his even greater debt.  The unforgiving servant is thrown in jail by his master because the servant did not show mercy to another even though the master showed mercy on him.  How can we say that we can’t forgive someone, when God has forgiven us for so much more?  Matthew 6:15 shows that there is no forgiveness for the one who does not forgive because an unforgiving spirit bears witness to the fact that he never repented.  Being forgiven by Christ should change us.  We who willingly pray to be forgiven should also be just as willing to forgive.  Being forgiven and forgiving others are a package deal.  You cannot have one without the other.  Are you having a hard time forgiving others?  Remember how much you were forgiven, and have the same attitude as Christ did.

Exodus 20:8-11

The Christian Sabbath is called the Lord’s Day in the New Testament. It is the practice of the church to worship on the day of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. This also helps separate  Christians from the Jews. The idea of the Sabbath was not just a part of the ceremonial law. It is here in the Moral law and also as part of the creation mandate in Genesis. It is the day we are to Worship and the day we are to pull back from the busyness of all other days as much as we can to rest with God and His people.

Exodus 20:4-6

The Second commandment deals with Worship. How does God want to be worshipped? This commandment specifically deals with the idea of images. This is why we do not worship God with pictures, statues, video clips and things that make a visible representation of God. He has clearly  told us not to do that. This commandment also sets down the principle that Worship is to be done according to what God has said He wants in worship. Worship is not for your entertainment. It is about us giving and directing our praise to God and hearing Him speak to us.

Matthew 6:14

Jesus again speaks on our attitudes toward forgiveness.  There is a direct relationship between having been forgiven by God and the forgiveness that a Christian should extend toward others.  Because Christ has forgiven us, we should imitate Him and forgive others.  This means that we should forgive others fully, for we have been fully forgiven by the grace of God.  We should forgive often, just as we ask for forgiveness for the many sins we commit each day.  We should not keep a tally so we can stop forgiving someone when they have too many strikes, but we should forgive others as Jesus says seventy times seven.  Remember that we should be showing others Christ in us, and that means we should show His forgiveness as well.

Matthew 6:13b

The world will tell us that we are fine and there is nothing to worry about, but this is a facade.  We need to be delivered from our sin.  That is a fact, and the only way for this to happen is to turn to Christ.  We need to depend on Him for everything because we cannot deliver ourselves. We will fall victim to Satan every time if we try to do it alone.  This is why we should be praying for Christ’s help to overcome our sins. Because of Christ, we have been given a Helper to enable us to be victorious over our sinful ways. The Holy Spirit within us helps us to put to death the deeds of the flesh and to put on Christ and to live for Him.  Do you try to overcome your temptations yourself, or are you relying on the Holy Spirit to help you?

Matthew 6:13a

Jesus tells us that He is the Good Shepherd and that we are the sheep.  As a shepherd leads his sheep, Christ leads us.  In this petition, we ask to not be led into temptation, where we may fall into sin, but to instead be led away from sin to righteousness.  We may find we wander into sin when we are not relying on Him to lead and guide us.  When we aren't praying, going to church, or reading His Word, it is no surprise that we find ourselves knee deep in our sins.  We should be constantly letting Christ lead and guide us so that we may not fall into temptation.  Have you been trying to guide yourself and fallen into a sinful hole, or are you relying on Christ to lead you every day?

Matthew 6:12b

When we are reminded of just how much we have been forgiven, we also should pray that we would forgive others  There are people that have wronged us in our lives, and we are presented with two ways we deal with these people.  The first way, which is the wrong way, is to hold a grudge, be spiteful, or other sinful means.  The second way is what Jesus tells us; we should forgive them.  We must remember just how much wrong we did toward God and how we are still forgiven.  In turn, when we are faced with those who have wronged us, we should have the same forgiving attitude that God had for us.  Are you holding a grudge, or are you showing Christ’s forgiveness by forgiving others?

Matthew 6:12a

As Lord and Creator, God is due perfect obedience from all mankind, but sin disables us from doing so, and we are in debt to Him.  If one does not pay a debt, the debtor would be reprimanded for it.  Because we cannot pay our debt to God, we deserve punishment.  However, Christ paid the debts of His people by giving up His own life in order that their debts may be paid.  When we pray to be forgiven of our debts, we remind ourselves that we owe Christ our lives because He paid our debts to save us.  This is also a reminder for us to pray that He would change our lives, so that we may glorify Him by obeying Him.

Matthew 6:11

All blessings come from God, and this includes the food we eat each day.  We should rely on Christ to provide what we need each day.  We should trust that God knows what we need and that He will sustain us. We should not be anxious, worrying about what will be on the dinner table, but we should have faith that God will give us what we need to meet our physical needs.  This helps us to continue to trust in Christ when times get hard, and we can find peace and comfort in Him when we are going through a troubling event.  Jesus reminded us earlier that God provides for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, and He will surely take care of His people. 

Do you trust in God for your salvation, but not for your daily means?  We should find comfort in that Christ, who provides salvation, also provides our daily bread.

Matthew 6:10b

When we pray that God’s will would be done, we are talking about two important responsibilities.  The first is that we should commit ourselves to learning all we can about His will, which means we should be studying His Word.  The second responsibility is that we do His will with the power of the Holy Spirit enabling us to do so.  We may say we want to do God’s will, but we may be torn between His will and our sinful desires.  We should genuinely pray that He would help us to do His will and put off our sinful ways. 

Do you spend time studying the Bible do discern God’s will, or is that something that you let the pastor do for you? Do you truly want to do God’s will, or do you prefer your sinful habits more?

Matthew 6:10a

We often anticipate the coming of the kingdom of God as the final consummation seen in Revelation.  However, God’s kingdom is past, present, and future, and His kingdom is here on earth now, as Christ is reigning in the hearts of believers and in the church.  We show others the kingdom of God by showing them Christ in our actions, words, and sharing of the Gospel.  We anticipate the second coming of Christ and are ready to see Him face to face, but there is still kingdom work for us to do today because the kingdom is already here. 

Are you just sitting around waiting for Jesus to return, or are you showing the lost that they can be a part of the kingdom that is here, right now, in the hearts of believers?

Matthew 6:9c

The word “hallowed” here means to be set apart, and we should set God above all things in our lives.  We should glorify and praise Him for who He is as our Lord, Creator, and Savior.  We should hold high the name of God because as Acts 4:12 says, there is no other name under which can be saved than His.  We often find that God’s name is used very loosely today, and it is not being revered.  Jesus reminds us of the respect and high regard that we should have for the name of God in this verse. 

Do you revere the Lord’s name, or do you let it loosely slip off of your tongue when you are angry or upset?

Matthew 6:9b

Jesus tells us to pray to our Father in Heaven.  Think about that for a second.  We can consider God as our father.  No matter if you had a good or bad earthly father, we know that we have an amazing Heavenly Father who we can come and pray to.  As our Heavenly Father, God loves His children, and He cares for them.  When we begin with this, we are reminded that God always does what is best for His children, whether we see it or not.  This helps humble us, knowing that no matter what we are going through, God has our best interests at heart.