Have you forgotten?
In the second week of our “In Christ” series, Jamey Codding continued exploring our identity in the book of Ephesians by looking at the first 10 verses of chapter 2.
After a quick review of the markers of our new identity in Christ that Pastor Jake explored from Ephesians 1:3-14, Jamey pointed out that Paul begins the second chapter with a dramatic shift in tone:
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. (Ephesians 2:1-2)
Why? If Paul is calling this church of new believers in Ephesus forward into a deeper understanding of their new, restored identity, why look back at their old, broken identity?
To encourage the Ephesians and us to never forget the “before” in our story. Because if we forget the depths of what we’ve been saved from, we’ll eventually forget the heights of what we’ve been saved to in our “after.”
Even worse, if we forget who we were before Christ, and we forget who we are now in Christ, that opens us up to the greatest tragedy of all: We can forget who He is.
Reflection Questions
- Take a moment to look back on your life before encountering Christ. What were the defining aspects, struggles, or mindsets that marked your “before” story?
- Jamey shared the word “eucatastrophe,” a term coined by author J. R. R. Tolkein that describes a sudden turn of events that ensures the protagonist avoids impending doom. Consider a moment in your life that can be described as a “good catastrophe” – a profound turning point where God’s grace was evident. How did this event reshape your identity and perspective?
- Imagine yourself at the banquet table in the heavenly realms, as described in Ephesians 2:6-7. What would the place card read, and how does knowing you have a unique seat at God’s table impact your sense of identity and belonging?
- Reflect on the balance between acknowledging your past (“before”) and fully embracing your present identity in Christ (“after”). How does remembering your “before” contribute to a deeper appreciation of who you are now in your “after”?
- Consider the good works mentioned in Ephesians 2:10. How can you actively engage in the good works God has prepared for you? In what ways can your unique identity in Christ influence the way you live, serve and relate to others?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from January 28
- “My Testimony”
- “God You’re So Good” by Passion
- “Grace Alone” by Modern Post (after the message)/li>