Read: Ephesians 2:4-9 | Listen: Ephesians 2

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8–9

 Paul continues to teach the Ephesians about the heart of God. God is loving, merciful, and gracious. In love, he gave himself for them. In mercy, he does not give them the punishment their sin deserves. And in grace, he gives them what they do not deserve—forgiveness, new life, and a place with him forever. Paul reiterates the good news of salvation: they are saved by grace alone, through faith alone in Jesus. They cannot earn their way to God by being good, doing more, or trying harder. Salvation is a gift. 

Jesus took our place. On the cross, he took our sin and bore the punishment we deserved. He gave his life so we could be forgiven. Then, through faith in him, he gives us his righteousness and makes us right with God. We do nothing to earn this gift. We simply receive it by trusting in Jesus. This leaves no room for boasting. We are not saved because we are better than someone else or because we have worked hard enough. God is the one who saves. Our part is to respond in faith. 

TODAY: If you have never placed your faith in Jesus, talk to him now. Admit your need, turn from your sin, and place your trust in Jesus alone. If you are already following Jesus, take a few minutes to thank him specifically for the grace you have received. Then join our worship team in singing “Jesus Paid it All/Nothing but the Blood” as a reminder that Jesus has done what we could never do for ourselves.