Sunday Sermons

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Blessed with Every Spiritual Blessing – Ephesians 1:3–14

James Butterfield opened with a relatable question: "Do you ever feel blessed?" He noted how social media often celebrates #blessed moments like weddings or holidays – but is that what true blessing looks like?

Turning to Ephesians 1:3–14, James unpacked Paul's words from prison: "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ."

Paul, writing in chains, lists these blessings:

  • Chosen before creation to be holy (v4).
  • Adopted as God's children through Jesus (v5).
  • Redeemed by Christ's blood, forgiven (v7).
  • Lavished with grace, wisdom, and understanding (v8).
  • Included in God's mystery – uniting all things under Christ (v9–10).
  • Sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of inheritance (v13–14).

James contrasted earthly "blessings" (food in fridge, health, safety) with spiritual ones – we're rich in Christ no matter our circumstances. Even Paul, imprisoned, knew this.

He linked it to the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12): Blessed are the poor in spirit, mourners, meek – heavenly rewards for those in Christ.

The point? God lavishes grace on us through Jesus' death and resurrection. We're not earning it; it's gifted.

James tied it to the Lord's Table: We remember Christ's sacrifice – the ultimate blessing that unlocks all others.

Takeaway: If you're in Christ, you're blessed beyond measure – right now, eternally. Praise Him for it!


Summary written by Shaun Fereday, Leader @SFGHChurch

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