"Brought Near by the Blood of Christ"
Introduction:
Greetings, dear congregation. Today, we gather to delve into the powerful message of Ephesians 2:13 from the New Living Translation: "But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ."
Point 1: A Distant Separation
Scripture: Ephesians 2:13a (NLT) - "Once you were far away from God..."
Illustration:
- Imagine a vast, unbridgeable chasm separating you from God's presence. This separation symbolizes our spiritual state before encountering Christ. Our sin had created an insurmountable gap between us and our Creator.
Point 2: Brought Near by His Sacrifice
Scripture: Ephesians 2:13b (NLT) - "...but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ."
Illustration:
- Consider a bridge suspended over that chasm, allowing you to cross safely to the other side. The bridge represents the sacrificial work of Christ on the cross. His blood became the bridge that spans the gap, reconciling us to God and bringing us near to Him.
Point 3: Rejoicing in Reconciliation
Scripture: Romans 5:10 (NLT) - "For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son."
Illustration:
- Think of a fractured relationship that is beautifully restored. Through Christ's blood, our once-broken relationship with God has been mended, and we can now rejoice in being reconciled to our Heavenly Father.
Conclusion:
Ephesians 2:13 reminds us of the profound transformation that occurs when we accept Christ's sacrifice. We move from a state of separation and distance from God to being brought near through His blood. This reconciliation is a cause for great celebration and gratitude. Let us never forget the bridge of grace built by Christ's blood and draw near to God with hearts full of thanksgiving.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the bridge of grace, forged by the precious blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May we continually draw near to You, rejoicing in the reconciliation we have through His sacrifice. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
