[We] were dead in [our] transgressions and sins, in which [we] used to live when [we] followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 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, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace [we] have been saved. (Ephesians 2:1–5, NIV).
My Musings – We must remember from whence we came, whether or not we consider that “[our] transgressions and sins” were less evil than those who continue to follow “the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air.” For “like the rest” we were no less “objects of wrath” than they continue to be. No more deserving “of His great love for us.” It was not by our own merit that He “made us alive with Christ.” On the contrary, “it is [only] by grace [that we] have been saved.”
My Advice – So, as we remember that “all of us also lived among them at one time,” let’s not be too hasty in condemning those “who [remain] disobedient” to the call to salvation. For they stand condemned already, “by nature [still] objects of [God’s] wrath.” Rather let us pray that they respond to the Gospel and be made “alive with Christ,” just as we have been.
And may we “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks [us] to give the reason for the hope that [we] have…with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15, NIV 1984). Perhaps they will grab onto that hope.
The Brew Is A Musing 