Abba, Father
Ephesians 1:1-6 |
"He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will - to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves." (1:5)
Adoption is profound in that it goes beyond this world. It is greater than the world, and it is before the world in the plan of God, and it will outlast the world as we know it. Indeed it is greater than the entire expanse of the "universe" and is rooted in God's own nature.
"Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ..."
... "because He has blessed you." (1:3)
... "because He has chosen you." (1:4)
... "because He has adopted you." (1:5)
... "because He has favored you." (1:6)'
"For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen." (Romans 11:36)
Adoption is "from Him".
It was His idea, His purpose. It was not an afterthought. He predestined adoption. He planned it.
Adoption is "through Jesus Christ".
"In Him [Christ] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." (1:7)
Adoption is "for the glory of God."
Adoption is "for Him." That is, it is for His glory. "He predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace." (1:6)