All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions -- it is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:3-5

I. We are not worthy of God's love or steadfast in holiness, we are by nature objects of God's __________!

II. We are so sinful that we are __________ of doing anything good to save ourselves.

III. We ask God, "What did I do to deserve this salvation?" And God replies, "__________, it's just because I love you!"

IV. If we lose our understanding of ________, we will lose our understanding of Jesus and grace and salvation.

Scripture Readings
Acts 2:42-47, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 10:1-10

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the book of Ephesians daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. Read through Ephesians 1:1-23. List all the blessings that God has graciously given you. Now read Ephesians 2:1-3. What have you done to earn these blessings? What might these verses say concerning our free will? What is so shocking about God's grace?

2. Our culture has downplayed the teaching of sin. Why do you think that is? How does the Bible speak of sin? (Read Matthew 15:18-19; Ephesians 2:1-13; Romans 3:9-20). Why do you think the Bible puts such an emphasis on our sin? Is it to make us feel bad about ourselves? Or is it to show us why we need Christ?

3. Read John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-9. What has God done to be gracious to you?