TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
In him, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. Ephesians 1:7
Read: Ephesians 1:7
Listen: Ephesians 1
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Filled with goods from around the world, the agora (marketplace) at Ephesus is a place where anything can be purchased. Clothing, spices, perfumes and idols of Artemis entice the shoppers as they stroll from shop to shop. But goods aren’t the only thing available. People are for sale. Ephesus is a center of the slave trade with 60,000+ slaves living in and around the city. A wealthy household has upwards of 200 slaves.
Some in the new Ephesian church’s congregation are slaves. It was noticeable by a tattoo, the household mark that owns them. No longer free to pursue their own work, passions and desires, these slaves are looking for someone to redeem them and purchase their freedom. It makes all the difference to these slaves to hear they are set free spiritually through the blood of Jesus. Their freedom, true freedom, has been purchased by Jesus.
Watch this video clip as Pastor Aaron Buer explains bondage is not just a first-century issue. We can be in bondage to habits, lies, a way of thinking and a pattern of life. But we are free when we follow Jesus and accept his forgiveness of our sin! We no longer have to live in bondage of anything that seeks to enslave us. Our bondage no longer defines us. In Christ, we are free.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
In your journal, list all of the things Christ has set you free from. When you are finished, offer a prayer of gratitude to God for your freedom provided through the blood of Jesus.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is 1 John 2.
