Ephesians 2:3-5 (WEL) Among whom we all also lived our lives in the past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and by nature we were children of wrath even as others. 4 But God is rich in mercy because of his great love in which he loved us. 5 Even when we were dead because of sins, he made us alive with Christ, for you are saved by grace.
V3 Among whom we all also lived our lives in the past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and by nature we were children of wrath even as others.
Some of the deeds of the flesh, our past lives, are listed in Galatians 5:19-21 and 1 Peter 4:3-8. We have lusts, desires, for what is pleasurable to us, then we make a decision to do so, we justify it, plan it, and attempt to accomplish it. See James 1:12-15. An example is found in Genesis 3:6. Also see Micah 2:1-3.
The sins of the mind are sins committed not on a person but in our imagination doing the same thing.
The children of wrath because sin brings consequences—God’s wrath. God’s wrath is both present time (sickness, loss of fellowship, trust, money, respect, and freedom) and also future (hell). Beware: Galatians 6:7 CSB – Don’t be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a person sows he will also reap.
The solution is found in Galatians 5:16. To prepare ourselves we need to read and study the Scriptures to know what is right and wrong, depend on God’s help (2 Corinthians 12:9), and pray (Hebrews 4:16 and Psalm 94:17). If we sin, then confess, ask for forgiveness, and provide restitution if needed.
V4 But God is rich in mercy because of his great love in which he loved us.
Mercy is not receiving what we deserve. There may be consequences in this life even imprisonment, but forgiveness is with God. Forgiveness does not mean the consequences of sin are not received. Mercy is motivated by love. Paul is writing to Christians.
V5 Even when we were dead because of sins, he made us alive with Christ, for you are saved by grace.
Death is separation:
Spiritual death is separation from God.
Isaiah 59:2 (NIrV) But your sins have separated you from your God. They have caused him to turn his face away from you. So he won’t listen to you.
1 Timothy 5:6 (EHV) But the widow who lives only for her own pleasure is dead, even while she lives.
Colossians 1:21 (EHV) At one time, you were alienated from God and hostile in your thinking as expressed through your evil deeds.
Luke 15:24 (EHV) because this son of mine was dead and is alive again. He was lost and is found.’ Then they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:32 (EHV) But it was fitting to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again. He was lost and is found.’
Jesus died paying the debt and punishment of our sin. The redemption that is provided by Jesus is applied to anyone who believes (John 3:14-18, Romans 5:9-11, and 1 John 1:7).
We learn:
- Sin has consequences.
- Death is separation, not a spiritual corpse; for a nonbeliever is still aware and can hear the Gospel.
Questions:
- Have you sinned?
- Are you accepted by God, and why?