20 Jul Our identity: Chosen, Redeemed and Sealed

1. Introduction

(Ephesians 1:4–14)

2. Identity Context & Culture

We are all trying to answer the question: Who am I, really?

Problem: These stories produce striving, insecure, fragile identities.

3. The Original Context

• Written to Gentile believers in a city of idols, power, and spiritual striving.
• Roman culture, shame based, identity rooted in honour, status, and lineage.
• Paul redefines them not by status but by grace: “to the praise of His glory.”
• Trinitarian structure:
  • Father chooses
  • Son redeems
  • Spirit seals

“To the praise of His glorious grace…”

4. Our Identity

Chosen by the Father: You Are Loved  (vv.4–6)

Redeemed by the Son: You Are Part of God’s Story (vv.7–12)

Sealed by the Spirit: You Are Assured of a Future (vv.13–14)

5. How the Gospel Reorders Your Identity

Rest in the Father’s Love

• Stop striving. You’re in the family
• Let love not fear fuel your life.

Walk in the Redemption of Christ

• No more guilt or shame.
• Live like you are part of God’s bigger story.

Trust the Spirit’s Presence

• You’re sealed and marked.
• Walk with the assurance of a future.

6. Closing Gospel Summary – Who Are You?

Chosen by the Father: You Are Loved 

Redeemed by the Son: You Are Part for God Story

Sealed by the Spirit: You Are Assured of a Future

“To the praise of His glorious grace…”

Discussion questions:

1. What struck you the most from the sermon?
2. Our salvation is the Trinitarian work. Explain the role of each person of the Trinity and why each one is as important as the other.
3. How is your identity in Christ different from all other identities in the world? How does it change the way you live today?
4. If someone asks you, “Who are you?”, how are you going to explain your new identity in Christ?