This past Sunday we began a new sermon series on the book of Ephesians. We looked at Ephesians 1:1-14 and saw how the letter begins by praising God for all the benefits that come to those who embrace their identity as being “in Christ.” To understand one’s identity, it is vital to understand the difference between one’s roles and one’s identity. We each engage in a variety of roles in our life. There are the roles we have in our families, with our jobs, and in various groups we are part of. Many people confuse their roles with their identity, falsely believing that what they do is who they are. In truth, who we are is eternal whereas our various roles, as important as they may be, are only temporary. As believers in Jesus, we are to see our core identity as “in Christ”. In just 11 verses, that identity is referred to 7 times. Paul names the benefits that come from this identity. He says that in Christ we are:

  • Blessed with every spiritual blessing
  • Chosen to be holy and blameless
  • Destined for adoption
  • Bestowed with grace
  • Redeemed by the blood of Christ
  • Forgiven of our sins
  • Given access to know God’s will
  • The recipients of an inheritance
  • Marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit

All of this is wonderful news that stems from a clear understanding of our true identity. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for this! May we each come to deep understanding of this wonderful news

Group of volunteers posing in front of a blue sign that reads "Seminario Metodista" in Costa Rica, reflecting community engagement and mission work during the church's outreach efforts.Global OutreachMission in MotionCosta Rica Mission Opportunity
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Food pantry shelves stocked with various canned goods, jars of peanut butter, and boxed snacks, supporting the mission of providing nourishment and assistance to those in need.Mission in MotionFood Pantry & Clothing Closet Mission Opportunity
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Group of children and adults standing outside a stone building in Kenya, representing the Lakewood Methodist Church's mission opportunity to support local communities.Global OutreachMission in MotionKenya Mission Opportunity
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Kenya Mission Opportunity

Our Kenya Mission Opportunity ``It was a beautiful moment when Lakewood was able, by His Grace, to donate school supplies and desks to a very poor Primary School in Kenya.…
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