Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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ALIVE TOGETHER IN  CHRIST

Bible Reading:  Ephesians 2: 1-10

Key Verse:  8

 For it is by grace, you have been  saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is from the Gift pf God , not by works, so that no one can boast.

DEVOTION

 This passage offers profound insights into our identity, and purpose of believers, emphasizing the transformative power of being   “alive together in Christ”.
Paul through this portion gives us a powerful devotion, encouraging reflection on grace, salvation and our calling to live out in faith.
1.DEAD IN TRANSGRESSIONS:    Apostle begins by reminding us of our former state – dead in our sins.  This stark imagery highlights the seriousness of our separation from  God due to sin. We were trapped once  by following ways of the world and living in disobedience.  However recognizing this is crucial.; it paves the way   for  understanding the depth of God's grace.
2.MADE ALIVE BY GRACE:   The transition from death to life is initiated by God's incredible  mercy and love.  God made us alive in Christ because of his great  love and mercy. This truth encapsulates the essence of the gospel – our inability to save ourselves is met with God's unmerited favor. Let us reflect  on how this grace transforms our lives and gives us hope.
3.SEATED WITH CHRIST:    Not only  we are made alive, but we are also raised up and seated with Christ in the heavenly realms. This signifies our new identity  and status as children of God.  It is reminder that  our lives are now rooted in a heavenly perspective, encouraging us to live our  faith with confidence and authority.
4.PURPOSE AND GOOD WORKS:   Paul concludes with a crucial truth., that we are saved by grace  through faith , not by works, so that no ne can boast.  And we  are created in Christ Jesus  to do good works or acts that God  prepared in advance  for us to do.
REFLECTION AND CONCLUSION:   
Let us ponder upon how God's grace  has  impacted our life.   Let us consider what it means to be seated with Christ.   It is important to think about  the good works  God has prepared for you.  As  we meditate on these truths, allow them to reshape our understanding,  our place in God's family and our mission in this world?

PRAYER

  Heavenly father, thank you for the gift of grace   that has made us alive  together in Christ. Help us to remember our identity in you and empower us   to walk in the good works you prepared for us. Amen

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

   What changes  have you experienced since coming to faith?  How does the perspective of seated with Christ influence  your daily decisions and interactions.?  What steps can you take from now on to fulfill your calling in Christ?


Dr.John K Thomas Tabor MTC  , New York

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