Ephesians- Part 1- Adoption

On Sundays, we're beginning a study through the New Testament book of Ephesians. Here are some notes from the first lesson from Ephesians 1:1-14:

Ephesians is possibly a general letter to the early churches rather than a letter to a specific group based on the lack of individual, detailed information that Paul often included in his letters.

In verses 4 and 5, Paul tells us that "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world" and that He "predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ". To think that God thought of me before time began is almost unfathomable; He has alot going on you know. But in recent months, this passage has taken on an extra significance for me.

We have some great friends of our family who are currently going through the adoption process, soon to adopt two young children from a foreign country. To hear them tell of how adoption has impacted them to see the story of the Gospel and the gift of salvation so much more vividly, how adoption is such a clear representation of God's love for us, has been prevalent on my mind.

And while I continue to pray for our friends as well as for two children I've yet to meet, I'm reminded that though not from a foreign country, God adopted me out of sin when I was just a young boy. For that I am eternally thankful.