Scripture References: Ephesians 1:11-19; Deuteronomy 32:9; Romans 8:17; John 1:12
Intro: Welcome. This sermon concludes our series on identity in Christ. We've explored God's gracious labels replacing worldly ones: We are Saints (holy), Children (adopted), Redeemed (free). Today's final identity: Heirs (Eph 1:11-19). This truth counters feelings of insecurity and striving.
Key Points:
- Our Inheritance FROM God (v. 11, 14): As heirs in Christ, we have obtained an inheritance, guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. This means:
- Secure: Our standing and future are safe in Him.
- Affirmed: We belong, deeply loved and valued by the Father.
- Provided For: He meets our deepest needs.
- Forgetting We Are Heirs ("Orphan Mindset"): Though declared heirs, we often functionally live as if abandoned, overlooked, and needing to provide for ourselves. Symptoms include: workaholism, drivenness, anxiety, fear, scarcity thinking, pushiness, mistrust, taking offense easily. Our handling of money often reveals this (hoarding vs. generosity).
- The Greater Inheritance: We Are GOD'S Inheritance (v. 18): Paul prays we'd grasp the riches of "His glorious inheritance in the saints." The most profound truth isn't just what we get from God, but that WE are His treasured inheritance! He delights in us, cherishes us, sees us as His glorious portion (Deut 32:9).
- Implications of Being God's Inheritance:
- Transforms Perspective: Shifts focus from "What do I get?" to "He delights in me!"
- Deepens Security: Knowing God treasures us provides ultimate security beyond circumstances.
- Breaks Striving/Fear: We don't have to perform or worry; His delight in us is based on His grace in Christ. He's passionately for us.
- Fuels Joy: Realizing God's enthusiastic love and anticipation for us (like a parent eagerly awaiting their child) brings profound joy.
Conclusion: Our deepest identity isn't defined by our performance or possessions, but by God's gracious declaration: we are His heirs. More than inheriting spiritual blessings, we are His treasured inheritance. Resting in His delight over us frees us from the orphan mindset of striving, fear, and insecurity.
Call to Action: Ask the Holy Spirit for a revelation of what it means to be God's glorious inheritance. Let the truth that He cherishes and delights in you sink deep into your heart. Meditate on Ephesians 1 this week. Consciously reject orphan-thinking (fear, striving, scarcity) and live out of your secure identity as a beloved heir.
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