Why were we “children” or “objects” of wrath? Ephesians 2:3
◄ Ephesians 2:3 ► Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
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Tim Maas
Supporter
Prior to receiving the saving gift of faith in Christ through the working of the Holy Spirit, all humans (as sinners from birth by nature) are subject to God's anger and judgment for their sin, resulting in eternal separation from Him. As indicated in Genesis 3, the first sin committed by Adam resulted in this corruption, which has been passed down to all subsequent human generations (1 Corinthians 15:22), with the exception of Christ, due to the unique manner in which He was conceived.. It is only by placing faith in Christ's atoning death (which paid the penalty for humanity's sin, as demonstrated by Christ's subsequent resurrection) that humans can be reconciled to God and receive the gift of eternal life.
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
This phrase, “children” or “objects” of wrath in Ephesians 2:3 reminds us of the deep impact Adam's sin had on every one of us. Because of his choice, we inherit a sinful nature—it's something we're born with, not something we earn. Just like we inherit traits from our parents, we also inherit this brokenness that separates us from God (Romans 5:12-21). The Bible puts it plainly: by our very nature, we are "children of wrath" (Ephesians 2:3). That means we're under judgment, not because of what we've done, but because of who we are without Christ. It's a sobering truth—but it also makes God's mercy and grace in Jesus all the more amazing. This was a verse that I memorized from the NASB, but here is Ephesians 2:3 (Paraphrased for Memorization): We all once followed the pull of our selfish desires, living to please ourselves, not God. By nature, we were on a path that leads to God’s judgment—not because He is cruel, but because He is holy and cannot ignore sin. Yet even then, God was preparing to show us mercy.
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