But because of his great love for us… (Ephesians 2:4, NIV)
Shallow views of sin lead to a shallow view of salvation. But once you see the extent of the human problem, then you will begin to see the weight and wonder of our salvation in Jesus Christ. Here are six things that happened when you became a Christian. Everything that follows is a display of God’s love for you:
We are not created in Christ by our good works; we are created in Christ for good works.
1. God gave life to you.
“God… made us alive with Christ” (Ephesians 2:5). Life came to you. It did not come from you.
2. God imparted power to you.
“God raised us up with Christ” (Ephesians 2:6). God has given you power, so that you are no longer shackled by your sin.
3. God secured heaven for you.
“God… seated us with him” (Ephesians 2:6). All that is needed for your entrance into heaven has already been accomplished by Jesus Christ.
4. God saved you.
“It is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:5, 8). Saved from what? You have been saved from spiritual death, being dragged around by your sinful nature, and from the wrath of God.
5. God gave faith to you.
“Faith… it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). Behind your decision lies a massive work of God.
6. God prepared work for you.
“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Ephesians 2:10). We are not created in Christ by our good works; we are created in Christ for good works.
Which of these, if any, are you aware of in your own life? How so?
