Ramsey Creek Baptist Church

Worship is not a secondary issue for Paul – it’s primary, as evidenced here as he begins this long sentence with praise to God. He starts by reminding his listeners of all the incredible blessings that are theirs "in Christ" (this phrase shows up 11 times in the first 12 verses). All these blessings are from God and for God - "to the praise of His glory". While there's much to discover of God's sovereignty in these verses, let's not forget that it's all intended to make us into a people of praise. - The Father chose, predestined, and adopted people for Himself. (vs 3-6) - Through the shed blood of the Son sinners have redemption and forgiveness. (vs 7-12) - The Spirit "seals" and "guarantees" that all those whom the Father gives to Jesus will come to Him. (vs 13-14) A true revelation of the nature of God will always result in praise from His people! God sovereignly saves sinners so they might be holy and blameless before Him - this is His good purpose in election. If God doesn’t choose