Exalting Christ

Scripture
Ephesians 1:2-14
[2] Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, [4] even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love [5] he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, [6] to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. [7] In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, [8] which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight [9] making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ [10] as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
[11] In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, [12] so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. [13] In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
The Big Picture
We are a part of a great big God-authored story of creation, fall, redemption and restoration. The story is ultimately about God, His glory and our joy.  As the Westminster Short Catechism states, we exist to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.
Reflection
1. How do you answer the questions “Who am I” and “Why am I here”?
2. What created things do you tend to elevate and worship?
3. Thinking back on previous experiences, what things have you elevated or worshiped that crumbled under the weight of your expectations?
4. Pastor John Piper writes “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”  How do you see that play out in your life?
5. What are ways that you can exalt Christ this week in your life?
Songs
Run Devil Run
Soul On Fire
We Believe
Sons and Daughters
Book Recommendations