Daily Bible Reading—January 2025, God’s Strengthening Word: Celebrating Unity in Christ JesusНамуна

Introduction

Ephesians 1:1–14: We begin this new year with the reading of the letter to the Ephesians. Paul lived in Ephesus for three years. There, he preached in the synagogue and also lectured in the hall of Tyrannus, a philosopher for whom the hall was named (see Acts 19:1–10). This letter summarizes many other important teachings found in Paul’s other letters. The opening chapter describes the unfolding of God’s plan and our relationship with God.

Today’s Key Verse: Ephesians 1:6

Let us praise God for his glorious grace, for the free gift he gave us in his dear Son!

Reflect

Verses 3–14 comprise a beatitude, or blessing, in which we read about God “giving us every spiritual blessing” (verse 3). In Greek, the language in which the letter is written, all these verses are part of one long sentence with a series of clauses describing God as the Creator who has redeemed us through Christ and bestowed on us the Holy Spirit. What blessings are recounted in these verses? How is our relationship with God described (verse 5)?

Pray

Holy God, source of every spiritual blessing, draw me close to you at the beginning of this new year. Each day remind me of your grace, which you have given me in such large measure. I praise you, Lord God, for your steadfast love and gift of glorious grace. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Ephesians 1:15–23: The apostle Paul prays for the Ephesians.