Chosen in Love: The Essence of Holiness

In this session, we delve into Ephesians 1:3-6, focusing on the phrase "in love" and its placement within the text. The question at hand is whether "in love" modifies the preceding clause, "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world," or the following clause, "He predestined us." The translators have chosen the latter, but the original text allows for both interpretations. This distinction, while subtle, holds significant implications for understanding our relationship with God and each other.

The argument presented leans towards "in love" modifying the clause about being chosen to be holy and blameless. This interpretation aligns with the pattern in Ephesians where prepositional phrases typically follow the verbs they modify. Furthermore, the essence of holiness and blamelessness is deeply rooted in love, as seen in other Pauline writings. For instance, in 1 Thessalonians 3 and Philippians 1, love is depicted as the foundation for holiness and blamelessness. This suggests that our love for one another is integral to our sanctification and standing before God.

The ultimate goal, as outlined in Ephesians, is for God to have a bride for Christ and children for Himself, marked by love. This love is not merely an abstract concept but the very essence of holiness and blamelessness. It reflects the nature of God and is the defining characteristic of His chosen people. Thus, being chosen in love means being called to embody this divine love in our relationships, reflecting God's character and fulfilling His eternal purpose.

Key Takeaways

• 1. The phrase "in love" in Ephesians 1:3-6 is pivotal in understanding our calling to holiness and blamelessness. It suggests that love is the essence of our sanctification, shaping how we live and relate to one another. [07:03]
• 2. The pattern in Ephesians shows that prepositional phrases typically follow the verbs they modify, supporting the interpretation that "in love" modifies our being chosen to be holy and blameless. This highlights the importance of love in our spiritual journey. [06:47]
• 3. Love is foundational to holiness and blamelessness, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 3 and Philippians 1. Our love for one another is not just a command but the very means by which we are established in holiness before God. [09:06]
• 4. God's eternal purpose is to have a bride for Christ and children for Himself, marked by love. This love is the defining characteristic of His people, reflecting His nature and fulfilling His divine plan. [12:24]
• 5. Being chosen in love calls us to embody divine love in our relationships, reflecting God's character and purpose. This love is not an abstract ideal but a practical expression of holiness and blamelessness in our daily lives. [11:28]
  ** [11:28]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:18] - Introduction to Ephesians 1:3-6
• [00:49] - The Placement of "In Love"
• [01:19] - Predestined in Love or Chosen in Love?
• [02:05] - Purpose of Being Chosen
• [03:17] - Modifying Verbs in Ephesians
• [04:14] - Argument for "In Love" Modifying Chosen
• [06:47] - Prepositional Phrases in Ephesians
• [07:19] - God's Love or Our Love?
• [08:02] - Love as the Essence of Holiness
• [09:06] - Love and Blamelessness in Thessalonians
• [10:05] - Love and Blamelessness in Philippians
• [11:00] - The Goal of God's Choosing
• [12:12] - A Bride for Christ and Children for God
• [12:46] - Conclusion and Reflection

1. In Ephesians 1:3-6, what are the two possible clauses that the phrase "in love" could modify, and what is the significance of this placement? [00:49]
2. How does the pattern of prepositional phrases in Ephesians 1:3-13 support the interpretation of "in love" modifying the clause about being chosen to be holy and blameless? [06:30]
3. According to the sermon, what is the ultimate goal of God's choosing as outlined in Ephesians, and how is love central to this purpose? [12:24]
4. How do 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 and Philippians 1:9-10 illustrate the relationship between love and holiness or blamelessness? [09:06]

1. What are the implications of interpreting "in love" as modifying our being chosen to be holy and blameless, rather than our predestination? How does this affect our understanding of God's love and our love for one another? [04:46]
2. How does the sermon suggest that love is foundational to holiness and blamelessness, and what does this mean for our spiritual journey? [09:50]
3. In what ways does the sermon argue that our love for one another is integral to our sanctification and standing before God? [09:06]
4. How does the concept of being chosen in love challenge or affirm your understanding of God's eternal purpose for His people? [12:24]

1. Reflect on your own life: How does the understanding that love is the essence of holiness and blamelessness change the way you approach your relationships with others? [09:50]
2. Consider a relationship in your life where love is lacking. What practical steps can you take to embody divine love in that relationship this week? [11:28]
3. How can you actively participate in God's eternal purpose of being a bride for Christ and a child for God, marked by love? What specific actions can you take to reflect God's character in your daily life? [12:24]
4. Think about a time when you felt chosen or loved by God. How did that experience shape your understanding of holiness and blamelessness? How can you share that experience with others to encourage them in their faith journey? [11:28]
5. Identify one area in your life where you struggle to love others as God loves you. What is one tangible way you can work on this area in the coming week? [09:06]
6. How can you cultivate a community within your small group that embodies the love described in Ephesians, 1 Thessalonians, and Philippians? What role can you play in fostering this environment? [09:06]
7. Reflect on the sermon’s message about love being the defining characteristic of God's people. How can you ensure that your actions and words align with this truth in your interactions with others? [12:24]