First Baptist Church of Cresson
Sunday Morning - April 18th, 2004
Ephesians 1:1-14
Walking a Life Worthy of the Calling:
The Blessings of God
I. INTRODUCTION (v.1-2)
a. Background: Ephesians – 10th book of NT. Paul writes to Church @ Ephesus
i. He had founded during 3rd missionary Journey.
ii. Ephesus was the 4th largest city in the Roman Empire
iii. Writes during his Roman imprisonment.
b. Central Theme: Ephesians 4:1 - “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.”
c. ILLUS: ECA – Baseline Vitals -> Vital for Christians!
d. Invitation instructions. -> READ TEXT. (v. 1-2)
II. Blessings from the Fathter (v. 3-6)
a. EXPLAIN -> distinction – heavenly/earthly
i. Eternal God – chose us (v.4)
ii. Significance of Adoption (v.5)
iii. HE made us accepted! (v.6)
b. ILLUS -> Widow woman – son’s leg – died $100 million
c. APPLY -> We are sitting on a Gold-mine – God’s blessings
III. The Redemption of Christ (v.7-12)
a. EXPLAIN ->
i. Redemption in blood (v.7)
1. Greek – “Lutro-o”: To release or set free.
ii. Grace in salvation – Forgiveness.
iii. Mystery of His Will (v. 8-10)
b. ILLUS -> Garage door, only child, no one to redeem me!
c. APPLY -> No worries – Christ has stepped up for you.
IV. The Word of Truth (v.13-14)
a. EXPLAIN -> Word of Truth – Seals your Fate
i. Sealed – Finished transaction, security, ownship
b. ILLUS -> Used car – pass note – all avenues – deal sealed
c. APPLY -> The deal is sealed – Christ won the bid!
V. CONCLUSION/INVITATION
a. RECAP/RESTATE
