What changes when a person who is spiritually dead cannot do anything to make himself right with God? Ephesians 2 begins with the reality of our condition apart from Christ: dead in trespasses and sins, disobedient, and under judgment. Then Paul introduces two words that change everything: “But God.” The hope of the gospel does not begin with something good God found in us. It begins with God Himself.
As Pastor Jake continues through Ephesians 2:1–10, he draws attention to the heart of the God who intervenes: He is rich in mercy, He loves with great love, and He shows the exceeding riches of His grace. Jesus’ mission in Luke 4 and His sacrifice at Calvary make that redemptive heart visible. God moves toward sinners who cannot rescue themselves, and His grace gives what they could never earn.
These truths are not merely doctrines to define. They give the church reason to speak highly of God, to remember what Christ has done, and to approach the Lord’s Table with grateful worship. The mercy, love, and grace that brought salvation are to remain before us as we live in light of the God who loves us.
Hear the complete sermon to follow Pastor Jake’s explanation of “But God” and consider how God’s rich mercy, great love, and exceeding grace lead us to praise Him and remember Christ.