Lenten Observations, March 4 2026, Ephesians 1

Ephesians 1:7: In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,

Keep in mind that 3-14 is one long sentence in the Greek. Also, note how many times “in Christ” or “in Him” or “in the Beloved” are in this one long sentence. Eleven times in fourteen verses must mean something! That seems to be the theme! And should that not be our focus?

Here we have one of those times. “In him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our (this is what is ours!) trespasses, according to the riches of His grace. What belongs to Him? Redemption, His blood, the riches of His grace. Doesn’t seem like an equal exchange, does it?

Of course not. I heard someone reflecting on surrender v. freedom. We think when we surrender to God we give up our freedom. Hah! Freedom to what? Freedom to be enslaved to addictions to all the things we could be addicted to now (more than in the past)?

What we bring to “the table” ain’t much.

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