Ephesians 2:1-10 is a master text for understanding our need for salvation, God’s gracious offer of salvation, and how to live out our salvation in deed and truth. Living out of a grace narrative rather than a moral performance narrative makes it possible to avoid religious judgmentalism and persevere with joy.

Ephesians 2:1-3. Paul’s description of humanity is startling and offensive but true. A quick glance at the last two weeks in the news easily confirms that we are broken. There’s something wrong with us. By nature, we follow the ruler of the power of the air, living according to the passions of our flesh. We murder, rape, assault, steal, lie, and deceive each other. The Bible’s diagnosis is that we are already dead. Our trespasses and sins have killed us. We who are spiritually dead cannot save ourselves.

Ephesians 2:4-7. Because of his mercy and love, God makes the first move. Astoundingly, he looks at fallen humanity, mired in selfishness, despicable in character, hopelessly dysfunctional—he looks and says, “I want you!” By bringing us back to life in union with Christ and seating us in the heavenly places, he has saved us and given us a bright hope (Titus 3:3-7). If you have not yet believed in the gospel, today is the day. Don’t say no to God’s invitation to salvation!

Ephesians 2:8-10. Salvation is God’s free gift to you. He reaches down in grace, but you must reach up in faith. When you do, he pulls you out of the quicksand of sin and sets you on solid ground. Remembering who you were before Christ and how God saved you makes it possible to live out of a grace narrative rather than a moral performance narrative. God has prepared work for you to do. Are you doing it? If not, go to him in prayer and ask him to reveal what work he has for you to do