June 17, 2022 -- Ephesians 1:1-2 -- Grace to peace and peace resting on grace

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Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:1-2 ESV

One of the great privileges I have as a pastor serving with Redemption Prison Minister is to lead Bible studies. This week I started a series on Ephesians. I am using the material and study guide in “Let’s Study Ephesians”, written by Sinclair Ferguson. It is a joy to work through this material. The men are very appreciative as well.

One observation that stuck with me is this, that the opening greeting of “grace and peace” is reversed at the closing blessing of the letter.(Ephesians 6:23-24). Ferguson muses, “Is this a hint that, between the bookends of this letter, grace will lead to peace, and peace will always rest in grace? How marvellous!” (page 6).

The clear implication is that God’s grace is primary. He acted in grace, at the foundation of the world choosing His Own in love. He acted in grace, sending Jesus Christ so that believers are covered by the blood which has washed away all their sins. He has acted in grace, sending His Spirit so that this amazing grace cannot be snatched away by the devil.

Therefore believers have peace with God, peace with fellow believers, and peace though the devil assail and the world afflict—these can never prevail. This is the unshakeable peace Christians have. What a glorious gift God the Father has given in us in Jesus Christ and guards in believers by His Spirit.

Thank You, Father in heaven, for the rich beauty of Your Word, which Your Spirit enlivens in believers, leading them to know You through the great revelation of Jesus Christ. Blessed are You, Triune God. Great and glorious is Your salvation. Amen.

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