4 July - Ephesians 1

Today we start a new book, Ephesians chapter 1. Paul is the author of this book as well and it’s written to a church in Ephesus. It was most likely written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome around 62 AD. Ephesus was the second largest city in the world during this time. The reoccurring theme in this book is that there should be unity among followers of Jesus. Let’s take a look at the first chapter.

1. Paul begins this book by praising God for his ability to know all things and his grace he extends to everyone. The fact that God knows who will decide to follow him doesn’t mean that God would force a person to follow Jesus; that would go against everything else the Bible teaches us about how God respects our freedom of choice. It simply means, God is God and therefore knows all things. We wouldn’t really want to serve a God who wasn’t all knowing would we?
2. Next, Paul tells his audience that he prays for them regularly. He prays God will help them to understand how to follow Jesus better. 

Does the knowledge that God knew if you would choose to follow him or not give you a greater sense of appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice he made on the cross for you? Don’t get confused by the idea that God knows all things. His ability to know everything doesn’t change his character nor does it change your freedom to choose. Changing thoughts; do you pray regularly for anyone? Do you pray for those closest to you to know God better each day? Do you pray for your church and church leaders? Will you pray for us at Tattoo Church? We’re hoping to have a positive impact in our community to start a movement of generosity and an open faith dialogue.