" Critically Important News "

 

Ephesians 2:1-9  "And you has HE quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in time past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

But GOD, who is rich in mercy, for HIS great love wherewith HE loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, has quickened us together with CHRIST, (by grace ye are saved): and has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS: that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us through CHRIST JESUS. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of GOD: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

     Daily we are inundated with news. Some of it is interesting, and some of it is relevant to our life in the present. But GOD has news that makes everything else pale in comparison. It is important because it affects not just today or the near future but all eternity. This GOOD NEWS from GOD is the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST. The Bible tells us that, prior to being saved, we "were dead in trespasses and sins" (v. 1 above). Being "dead" does not imply that we are unable to live or function, nor does it mean we are powerless to comprehend our spiritual condition or its remedy. Rather, it means we are separated from GOD, unable to save ourselves. Because we are sinners by birth and deed, our mind, emotions, and will are under the control of sin. Thus, anything we attempt to do in order to bring about GOD's forgiveness is also tainted by human depravity, rendering it unacceptable to HIM. This sinful condition leaves mankind in a state of spiritual death, unable to accomplish any work that would generate life (v. 9).

     However, we have good news: The LORD JESUS died in our place. HIS death, burial and resurrection secured the forgiveness of our sins, reconciling us to GOD the FATHER. When we are forgiven, we receive the gift of eternal life. To obtain this eternal life, each person must exercise faith in what CHRIST has done on his or her behalf (v. 8). Every individual must "believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST" (Acts 16:31 above), trusting in the Gospel message (see picture below) in order to be saved (v. 8). The one who received the gift of salvation is saved and safe forever because of WHO CHRIST is and what HE has done, having paid in full the just penalty for our sin. Have you believed this important news of the Gospel ? GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.feasite.org