“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1:1-2‬ ‭NASB‬‬

Paul was the apostle (one sent) that God had chosen. He was writing to the saints in Ephesus. Ephesus was a sea coast city in Asia Minor (Turkey today). Paul was concerned about the growth and maturity of the Ephesian believers. This city was once inundated with worship to the Greek goddess Artemis (also known as Diana). However, a strong presence of Christianity had taken hold in the city. The growth of the church was so great that it had an effect on the financial bottom line of a silversmith named Demetrius. He made his money by making things for the worship of Artemis. This was so upsetting to him that he incited a riot over it. (see Acts 18 and 19). Nevertheless, the church continued to grow. Paul wanted to see the believers grow in their faith and represent Christ well. This was the purpose of his writing.

In today's two verses, Paul established his apostolic authority and call, called the believers in Ephesus "saints", and greeted them with his standard blessing of grace and peace.

It is truly amazing that we can be called "saints". Indeed, we are saints through Christ Jesus. We are God's redeemed. You may feel unworthy and uncomfortable being called a saint, but God's Word calls us saints. Either you are a "saint" or an "ain't". Are you a child of God through Jesus Christ our Lord?

Prayer for today: Father, in Jesus name, thank you for washing me in the blood of Your Son Jesus. I am now a saint!