Life from Christ

Suggested Scripture

Ephesians 1

Key Verse

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.

(Ephesians 1:7-8, NIV)

Christ's death on the cross, and His resurrection on the third day was the once and final sacrifice to make us blameless in the eyes of God. What then is it that motivates Christians to live obediently to God’s commands?

The motivation to live a life as blameless as possible comes from the realization of the magnitude of what Jesus' death and resurrection means. Because we have been given the free gift of grace, our lives should exemplify a heart of gratitude and an attitude of humility. Consider the following example:

Suppose I was in need of a double lung transplant. In order for me continue to live, someone else must die. Once receiving donor lungs, I would be expected by doctors to carry on a healthy lifestyle. How preposterous would it be for me to take us smoking? What if I decided not to take the prescribed anti-rejection medication? Doing so would not be consistent with an attitude that is grateful. Nor is such behavior indicative of appreciation for being given a second chance at life.

Through Christ God has offered us the gift of eternal life. We were already dead in our sins when he decided that we would send his son to restore us. More than two thousand years ago, he sent his son--flesh, blood, and breath--so that ultimately in his death we would be given the opportunity to live.

Believing in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus is a way for us to receive salvation as something of a "life transplant. And unlike with organ transplants, we need never fear the possibility of rejection! The gift of salvation is one that cannot be lost, and the gift of life in Christ is life eternal.

Reflecting Pool

How have you responded to the gift of life?

Is your attitudes or behaviors inconsistent with that of someone who is grateful for life?

Have you ever thought that you were "good enough" on your own? Why or why not?