1. God's grace is lavished on us (7-10)

Here, Paul continued with the spiritual blessings the Lord Jesus gives his people. He gave us redemption from our sins through his blood that was shed on the cross. This was all done in accordance with the riches of God's abundant grace, which He gives to all believers. Why? To make known the mystery of His will, whose basis is Christ Jesus. His will is that all things in heaven and on earth may be in unity under the head of Christ.

2. You also are included in Christ (11-14)

The words 'in him' are repeated throughout this passage. Christ is the center of God's plan. We are chosen 'in him'. We have been predestined 'in him'. We who have put our hope in him are for the praise of His glory. Who is 'in him'? All who hear the word of truth (the gospel) and believe that the gospel is our salvation. We who believe receive the mark of the Holy Spirit, who guarantees us an inheritance in the kingdom of heaven. We belong to God, for the praise of His glory!


Application: Lord, thank you for including me in Christ. Help me to live for the praise of your glory.
One Word: We are included in Christ