Verse 5 says He chose us to be not only holy and blameless but also “adopted as his sons … in accordance with his pleasure and will….” Here is one of the great mysteries of God’s plan – He created us, we rebelled, He redeemed us; now He calls us not just servants or even friends but sons.
Perhaps you’ve heard the song “Friend of God.” I heard a dj, in response to that song, say that to be God’s sons and daughters is nice, but it’s great to be God’s friend. Huh? I had a professor put it this way: my friends can come into my house, kick off their shoes, and grab a drink; my kids can rearrange the furniture. My friends are guests, but my kids are at home!
Now, if we were merely servants or guests in His house it would be far more than we deserve, but He goes so far as to call us “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.”
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”
Why did He do this? “In accordance with his pleasure and will” – in other words, because He wanted to. What other reason could there be, really; there is certainly nothing in us to merit such favor. Such love comes simply from who He is. And He is awesome!
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More on Ephesians 1
Perhaps this DJ didn't have any children, that might make his remarks more understandable.
ReplyDeleteActually, he does, which makes it more bizarre.
ReplyDeleteBTW, if you get a chance, I'd like to know what you think about the rest of my immigration posts. Feel free to email if you prefer.
Chris
I actually had a large response on number 4 and accidentally hit back space and shift at the same time and lost it. I threw up my hands and went to bed. BTW I totally relate with your "about me". Every moment I spend here feels stolen, but I do love it.
ReplyDelete