Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ! Today, we are going to dive deep into the beautiful words of Ephesians, specifically Ephesians 1:1-14. In these verses, we uncover three amazing blessings that we, as believers, can hold onto: The Blessing of Spiritual Adoption, The Blessing of Redemption and Forgiveness, and The Blessing of Hope and Inheritance.

The renowned Christian author and theologian, C.S. Lewis once wrote, "The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God." These words resonate with the theme of our sermon today, as we explore what it means to be adopted into God's divine family, redeemed and forgiven, and given a hope and inheritance that cannot be measured by this world.

I. A Blessing of Spiritual Adoption

The Blessing of Spiritual Adoption is a profound and beautiful concept that is central to our Christian faith. It speaks to the transformative power of God's love, His divine plan, and His desire for a relationship with us. This spiritual adoption is not a mere legal transaction, but a deeply personal and intimate process that changes our identity and our relationship with God.

In Ephesians 1:5, Paul writes, "Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." This verse reveals the heart of God, His "good pleasure" to adopt us as His children through Jesus Christ. It is not out of obligation or necessity, but out of His divine love and grace that He has chosen us to be part of His family. This is a powerful testament to the depth of God's love for us, a love so profound that He chose to make us His own even before the foundation of the world.

A. This spiritual adoption is a transformative process that changes our identity. As adopted children of God, we are no longer defined by our past mistakes, our failures, or our shortcomings. Instead, we are defined by God's love, His grace, and His righteousness. We are no longer slaves to sin, but children of the Most High God. We are no longer outsiders, but part of God's divine family. This change in identity is not based on our merit or our works, but solely on God's grace and love for us.

B. Moreover, this spiritual adoption changes our relationship with God. As His children, we have direct access to Him. We can approach Him with confidence, knowing that He hears us and cares for us. We can experience His love, His grace, and His mercy in a personal and intimate way. We are not just servants of God, but His beloved children. This relationship is not based on fear or obligation, but on love and intimacy.

C. Furthermore, this spiritual adoption comes with certain rights and privileges. As children of God, we are heirs of His kingdom and co-heirs with Christ. We have the assurance of eternal life, the promise of His presence, and the privilege of His guidance and direction. We are not just recipients of God's blessings, but participants in His divine plan.

D. However, it's important to note that this spiritual adoption also comes with certain responsibilities. As children of God, we are called to live in a way that reflects our new identity and relationship with God. We are called to love as He loves, to forgive as He forgives, and to serve as He serves. We are called to be holy and blameless in His sight, not in our own strength, but through the power of His Spirit working in us.

II. A Blessing of Redemption and Forgiveness

The second blessing we find in Ephesians 1:1-14 is the Blessing of Redemption and Forgiveness ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO