Understanding Who We Are: Ephesians

READ: EPHESIANS 2:1-10; 3:14-21; 6:10-18

Ephesians is a short book—only six chapters. Paul wrote this letter to the church in Ephesus, but everything in it is for us as well!

This small letter contains some large truths. In fact, if you want a brief overview of the good news of salvation, along with your standing in Christ as a believer, and instructions for godly living, you’ve come to the right book.

The book is divided in two. In the first three chapters, Paul teaches us about God’s plan of salvation for the world. The last three chapters tell us how to live as children of God. And maybe this book is organized that way because it’s important for us to know who we are in Christ before we try to live out His good ways.

I didn’t use to know that. I would try really hard to obey all of the things in the Bible. But then I finally figured out that, until I understood who I was in Christ, trying to be good in my own strength just wouldn’t work. We need to rely on God to transform our hearts and help us walk in His good ways (Ezekiel 36:26; Philippians 2:13).

Ephesians is famous for spelling out how it was God’s plan to rescue sinners from their sins—something that nobody can do for themselves. None of us can cleanse ourselves from our sinfulness. But, because of God’s grace—His un-earned, un-deserved love—we can become children of God, and co-heirs with Christ. • Kristen Merrill

• According to Ephesians 1:3-14; 2:4-10, who are we in Christ? (If you want to know more about becoming a child of God and co-heir with Christ, check out our "Know Jesus" page.)

• Why do you think it’s necessary to know who God has made us to be…before we try to figure out what He wants us to do?

May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:19 (NLT)