In Christ when Challenged

The children begin a new school year, and we begin a new sermon series in the book of Ephesians. This Sunday we look at the first portions of Ephesians 1, and we find that  because we were included in Christ when we heard and believed (v. 13), we are to praise the Father who has blessed us in Christ (v. 3). Like the Ephesians, we live in the midst of challenge — be it challenging circumstances or a challenging culture. We need to be reminded what being faithful, set-apart people entails, but knowing how much God loves us and is for us, even when we are unsure about ourselves, gives us confidence in Christ to live for him. Join us as we glance at how we are (1) chosen in Christ (v. 3) and (2) marked in Christ — sealed with the Holy Spirit (v. 13).