The definition of accordance is “in a manner conforming with” or “granting something”. In Ephesians 1: 3-10 we learn we are given “every” spiritual blessing in Christ. Not some, not a few, not a lot, but every spiritual blessing. We are also chosen to be “holy and blameless in his sight”. So though we are not always holy and blameless, we are “in his sight” and have no deficiencies that would disqualify us. So we are equipped and seen by the coach as the first string, the A team, the starters.
We are adopted…………………………………………..in accordance to his pleasure and will
We are redeemed………………………………………..in accordance to his grace
We are given the mystery of his will…………….in accordance to his good pleasure
So we are also part of a fully restored and equipped team, and we have the game plan and the objective of the one in charge… who is God.
The mystery is no longer a mystery. We know that his plan is: “to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.” (vs 10).
So we are all fully prepared and equipped to bring all of humanity together. To restore the Garden of Eden – when we were one with God. This is the unity of humanity – the oneness of humanity and oneness with our creator.
This unity is in heaven – with God. And on earth – with each other and all of creation. This unity includes every distance relationally and geographically. Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth (Ac 1:8). In the story of the shepherd leaving the flock to go after the one (Mt 18:12-14) the one is important, and when brought back the flock is restored to 100% completeness. Absolute unity.
There are no second stringers in this game, we are all starters. We are all equipped and seen by our coach and creator as perfect, having no deficiencies. This is all in accordance to what God has done in Jesus. Let’s get in the game!
Barnabas Man 