This past weekend at Eastbrook, we began a new preaching series entitled “United,” which explores the essential nature of the church. This first week of the series I expanded upon the statement that the church is a people called by God. I walked through Ephesians 1:3-14 as the basis for my message.

You can find the message video and outline below. You can also view the entire series here. Join us for weekend worship in-person or remotely via Eastbrook at Home.

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“We, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.” (Ephesians 1:12)

What is the Church?

3 Characteristics of the Church (Ephesians 1:3-14)

1. The Church is Chosen by God the Father (1:3-6)
   1. Blessed with every spiritual blessing (1:3)
   1. Called and chosen by God (1:4, 11)
   1. Adopted by the Father through Jesus Christ (1:5)

• The Church is Redeemed in Jesus Christ (1:7-13)
  • Redeemed and forgiven through the blood of Christ and lavish grace of God (1:7-8)
  • Given insight into the mystery of God’s will (1:9-10)
  • Received the message of truth, the gospel of salvation (1:13)

• The Church is Sealed with the Holy Spirit (1:13-14)
  • Marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit (1:13-14)
  • Living to the praise of God’s glory (1:6, 12, 14) 

Living as the Church

Responding to God the Father’s call

Savoring God’s goodness in Jesus Christ

Living for God’s praise by the power of the Holy Spirit

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Dig Deeper:

This week dig deeper in one or more of the following ways:

• Memorize Ephesians 1:3-14 in its entirety or a verse from it. You may also want to memorize Ephesians 4:4-6.
• Journal about Ephesians 1:3-14, perhaps thanking God for each of the spiritual blessings outlined in this passage or dwelling upon one or two specifics that stand out to you.
• Reach out to someone to share with them what God is teaching you about the church and the spiritual blessings found in Jesus Christ. 
• Watch the Bible Project overview video on the book of Ephesians