REMODELING KEITH
Ephesians 1:3-14
The Message vv.11-12: “It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, He had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone."
In House devotion, Shakira invited Keith to Sunday school. Do you wonder how he’ll respond?
“Now you want me to go to Sunday school with you, Shak?” Keith asked, shaking his head.
“Sure. Why not? You’ve never met Jesus, and that’s a great place for the introduction.”
“I don’t know…” Keith looked around, shuffling his feet.
“Ok. I dare you! We’ll pick you up Sunday morning around 8 o’clock…OK?” Shakira insists, stamping her feet.
Keith doesn’t know—yet—what he’s in for. But here’s a preview:
If Keith were to accept Jesus Christ as his Savior, he’d take home a wheel-barrow full of blessings and gifts after Sunday school. He’d learn that he was chosen before the foundation of the world (verse 4), and already meant to be adopted as God’s kid (verse 5). Would Keith even get how awesome this is? The same sovereign God who spoke the world into existence chose Keith—out of billions of kids—to be part of His family!
He’d take home Jesus’ gift of forgiveness of sins, and eternal salvation (verse 7). Jesus willingly shed His blood, and died that torturous death on the cross for Keith. This gift assures Keith that he will never be separated from the Father, or His love. Regardless of what sin Keith commits, our Father will embrace him as holy—only because Jesus already bought his salvation. He’d ride home with Shakira and her family as a new boy (2Corinthians 5:17). He'd also be bringing along an invisible friend.
The Holy Spirit, tucked inside Keith’s heart, will teach him, counsel and comfort him for the rest of his life. He’s the deposit (de-POS-it means credit, or payment) that guarantees Keith’s eternity is secure (Ephesians 1:13-14). And Keith would also be bringing his inheritance home (1Peter 1:4). As long as he’s now a member of God’s family, he may as well begin collecting blessings that he’ll receive in heaven one day.
Can you see how our Father is holding out His arms to welcome Keith into His family? Can you see Brother Jesus applauding Keith’s decision? Are you Keith’s brother or sister in Christ?
Take Home Nugget
“Well, OK Shak. I’ll go with you to your Sunday school—but it better be good!” Keith caved.
Regardless of wealth, power or fame, The only thing I care about Is putting trust in Jesus’ Name.
J.D. Griffith
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff Written for http://www.biblestudyforkids.com/
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