Grace is at the heart of the Christian gospel. It is a doctrine that touches the very depths of human existence because it not only reveals to us the heart of God but draws us back into that precious communion with Him that was so tragically lost at the fall.

Reflection
Consider how Paul describes pre-conversion status in Ephesians 2:1-3. How do you think the culture in general, a typical unbeliever, would respond to this description of a non-believer? Do you think it even bothers them to “dead,” a slave of Satan, dominated by their appetites, and destined for wrath? Did you think of yourself that way prior to coming to know Christ? What are some of the consequences of our pre-Christian status? Why are the words, “but God,” in verse four so sweet? A main theme throughout Ephesians is the idea that believers are now “in Christ.” What does this passage reveal about that union? According to this text, what is the believer’s future, and how should that impact our lives in the present? Consider in our own words the relationship between grace and works.