#1376. For the praise of His glory (30/10/25)

Welcome to this Come to Jesus Daily Devotional (posted, at present, every weekday) as we Continue our Ephesians series: Ephesians - To the praise, for the purpose, in the power of God. 

In our last devotional, we reflected on the truth that God has chosen and predestined us for salvation by His grace and power. Today, Paul helps us see what we have been chosen for: 

We are chosen in order to praise and be for the praise of His glory. 

You can listen to this devotional below

1. Salvation has a purpose

Paul makes it clear that we are Christians ‘in order that…’ Our salvation is not just about forgiveness or personal blessing—it has a purpose: that our lives would be ‘for the praise of God’s glory.’ Earlier, in verse 6, Paul says the same thing:

‘

Our ultimate purpose is worship. Everything - our work, relationships, service, and evangelism - flows from and toward this. Even our good deeds should draw others to worship God:‘Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’ (Matthew 5:16)

2. Salvation magnifies God’s grace

Not only are we called to glorify God with our lives, but the way we are saved glorifies Him. Salvation is entirely His initiative: Jesus willingly went to the cross for us, and as Paul has already said, God ‘chose’ and ‘predestined’ us for salvation. This perspective strips us of pride and gives all the glory to Him alone. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, puts it this way:

3. We who were the first to hope…

Paul adds that ‘we… who were the first to put our hope in Christ’ refers primarily to Jewish believers, the first recipients of the gospel. Even they needed, and need, salvation through Christ, showing that all people—Jew and Gentile alike—are called to join together in praising God’s glory.

4. The joy of God’s glory

Some may wonder if it seems self-centred for God to predestin us to praise Him forever. But in reality, there is no greater gift He could give us. To behold and delight in His glory is the highest joy of heaven. We were made to worship Him; this is both our greatest privilege and deepest satisfaction.

Response

• Do I live with a clear sense that I exist to glorify God?

• Do my words, actions, and priorities reflect His worth?

• How can I cultivate a lifestyle of daily worship, not just on Sundays?

Community Group Notes

1. Notices

It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News.

Please ensure that your group know about, and are praying for, the second of our gift days this coming Sunday. 

2. Icebreaker

How has God been speaking to you from His Word this week, and how has this helped you? 

3. Worship together

Let’s begin our time together by lifting our eyes and hearts to worship our great God. Perhaps you have readings and songs that you would like to use together. Let’s be open to the gifts that the Spirit wants to give in order to encourage one another.

4. Study and pray together

Balanced Time Allocation - Please ensure a balanced focus on discussion, SIV (Serve, Invest, and Invite), and prayer so that each section is meaningful and fruitful.

On Sunday, we continued our series: Ephesians: to the praise, for the purpose, in the power of God. 

Our message on Sunday from Ephesians 1:7-14, was:  Redeemed and Sealed in Christ. 

Please read Ephesians 1:7-14 and discuss:

• Personal Reflection – What did God speak to you about through Sunday’s message?

• What does it mean to have ‘redemption’? 

• What is ‘forgiveness’ and how is this linked with ‘redemption through His blood’? 

• What is the ‘mystery of God’s will’ now made known?

• What is the ‘Seal’ and ‘deposit’ of the Spirit? 

SIV (Serve, Invest, and Invite)

• From Ephesians 1:7-14, what, particularly from v.13, is our role in God’s work of redemption?  

• Share Stories – Have you had any recent opportunities to Serve, Invest in, or Invite someone toward Jesus? Let’s encourage one another by sharing testimonies of God at work through us.

• Practical Next Steps – Who is God putting on your heart to reach? Are there any ‘people of peace’ (*see note) in your life—those who are receptive to you and spiritual conversation?

Let’s pray together: 

• Let’s pray for one another based on our study, and bring before God any other needs or requests for prayer.

• Pray for one another's SIV opportunities and boldness in following the Spirit's promptings.

• Pray specifically for the ‘people of peace’  in our lives—asking God to open hearts and provide opportunities to speak life and truth.