Series: Action [#165]
A CHRISTIAN’S CHECKBOOK- BENEFITS
Ephesians 1:7-12
Introduction:
Last week, we looked at how blessed we are as Christians. Verses 3-6 showed us the blessings of God the Father. Our text today, shows us the blessings of God the Son. As I was preparing this sermon, I started building the slides for the sermon; and I realized something- This sermon series looks like I am preaching about money. Now, this is not a bad thing because our riches in Christ are so much more valuable than money. Christians, we are rich in Christ.
At my school job, we have been interviewing for several different Maintenance positions. While the pay isn’t considered that great; the benefits are. Anytime a person starts a new job, they want to know how much they are going to be paid and what their benefits are.
As Christians, not only are you storing up treasures in Heaven; but the benefits in Christ are unbelievable.
Ephesians 1:7a
In Christ…
1. You are redeemed.
The word redeemed was used when someone was buying back a slave. Through the blood of Jesus, you have been paid for in full. I know, we don’t like to hear this; but you were paid for by Jesus; and are His slave. The awesome thing is, Jesus said that although you are a slave, He considers you a friend.
Ephesians 1:7b
In Christ…
2. You are forgiven.
We have all sinned and what we deserve is eternal death. Instead, through the blood of Jesus; you have been forgiven. Not only have you been forgiven; but you have been forgiven according to the riches of God’s grace. When God forgives, He forgets. Christians are told to confess their sins to God; and He is faithful to cleanse them of all unrighteousness. When you do this and then commit the same sin again; it is a new sin to God.
Ephesians 1:8
In Christ…
3. You are given wisdom and understanding.
Having knowledge is one thing; but having wisdom and understanding is completely different. Wisdom is using the knowledge that you have. If you need wisdom in how to deal with something; ask God. You have not because you ask not.
Ephesians 1:9-10
In Christ…
4. You get to know the mystery of God’s will.
On your own, you will not understand anything of God. The idea of knowing what God’s will is, is unreasonable. Please notice that God’s will is according to His pleasure. He chooses what He does and when He does it. God’s will is to bring us together as one, in Christ.
Ephesians 1:11-12
In Christ…
5. You are given an inheritance.
God has given us the same inheritance that Jesus gets. Don’t forget that everything we have as Christians is through Christ. He is our hope.
