King's Cross Utah

Culture offers many versions of Jesus, but only one is true. In this week's teaching from Mark 1, we learn that Jesus is the sovereign King and suffering Servant who came to rescue sinners. Discover why a false Jesus cannot sustain you in suffering, defeat sin, or save your soul—and why getting Jesus right changes everything. ---------------------- Mark 1:1-13 John the Baptist Prepares the Way 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, "Behold, I send my messenger before your face,     who will prepare your way, 3 the voice of one crying in the wilderness:     'Prepare the way of the Lord,     make his paths straight,'" 4 John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 Now John was clothed with camel's hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. 7 And he preached, saying, "After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." The Baptism of Jesus 9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." The Temptation of Jesus 12 The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.

What makes an ancient book of the Bible relevant to life in 2026? This week's teaching launches our new, in-depth series through the Gospel of Mark. We explore why Mark's account of Jesus is trustworthy, how it reveals Him as the Messiah and Son of God, and what it means to live for the King in light of the cross through everyday discipleship. Join us as we begin this journey through Mark and encounter Jesus in a new way.  ---------------------- Mark 1:1 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Do you feel weighed down by guilt, pressure, or the need to "measure up" spiritually? This week's teaching reminds us that God's grace changes everything. Listen in as we explores how grace frees us from performance-based faith, replaces shame with peace, and reshapes how we live each day. Discover how resting in God's grace brings real freedom, humility, and a transformed life rooted in His love. ------------ Romans 3:21-31 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. 27 Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, 30 since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. 31 Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.

Life can feel heavy, uncertain, and overwhelming—especially when hope seems hard to find. This Christmas Eve message points us to a light that shines in the darkness. Through an ancient prophecy and the birth of Jesus, we're reminded that true peace is still possible. Join us as we reflect on Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace—and discover how His light can meet us right where we are. ------------------ Isaiah 9:2-7 2 The people who walked in darkness     have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,     on them has light shone. 3 You have multiplied the nation;     you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you     as with joy at the harvest,     as they are glad when they divide the spoil. 4 For the yoke of his burden,     and the staff for his shoulder,     the rod of his oppressor,     you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult     and every garment rolled in blood     will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born,     to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder,     and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,     Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace     there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom,     to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness     from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

What is Christmas really about beyond the lights and traditions? In a world that often feels heavy and uncertain, this week's teaching from King's Cross Church points us to Jesus, the Light of the World, who came to overcome the darkness. As we celebrate Christmas this week, discover how His arrival brings real hope, lasting purpose, and light that still meets us in everyday life today. ------------------ Philippians 2:6-18 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Lights in the World 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.

In a world where leaders disappoint and promises fall short, our hearts ache for someone truly worthy of our trust. This week's teaching invites us into the hope of Advent, pointing us to Jesus Christ—the risen, reigning, and returning King our souls have been longing for. Listen in as we reflect on Christ's humility, exaltation, and eternal authority, discovering how His kingship answers our deepest desires for righteousness, justice, and lasting hope. Jesus is the true King who transforms not only our expectations of leadership, but our lives today. ----------------------- Philippians 2:9-11 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Why does true greatness feel so elusive in a world obsessed with success and upward mobility? We often find ourselves chasing more—more recognition, more achievement, more status—yet still feeling empty. Philippians 2 offers a radically different path. This week's teaching explores how Jesus redefines greatness through humility and sacrifice, revealing a victory that turns worldly logic upside down. His descent shows us a way of life shaped not by grasping for power, but by surrender, purpose, and true deliverance. Discover the transformative freedom of living a cruciform life—and why descending with Christ may be the most meaningful ascent you'll ever make.  ------------------------ Philippians 2:8  8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Why do our hearts still long for more, even when life feels full? This week's teaching, the first of the Advent season, explores how our deepest needs are met not through achievement, but through encountering Jesus. It invites us to reflect on the mystery of God becoming man—stepping into our brokenness, offering hope, and drawing us into true fulfillment. Discover how the Servant King meets us with love, faithfulness, and rescue. Tune in and be encouraged by the hope found in Him. ------------------- Philippians 2:5-7 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.

Do you ever feel like the darkness in your life—the struggles and temptations—keep winning? This week's teaching invites you into the hope and strength found in Ephesians, where Paul reminds us of the spiritual battle we face and the armor God has already provided. Discover the truth that victory is secured through Christ, and learn how to stand firm by equipping yourself with the full armor of God. As we unpack this powerful passage, you'll find practical encouragement to push back against the darkness, anchor yourself in Jesus' strength, and live with renewed purpose. Tune in and be reminded that you're not fighting for victory—you're standing in the victory Christ has already won. ---------------------- Ephesians 6:10-24 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. 21 So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.

Do you ever feel close to God on Sunday, but disconnected once Monday hits? This week's teaching explores that feeling of living in two separate worlds—faith on one side, real life on the other. Jesus invites us into a whole, integrated life where our identity in Him shapes everything from our families to our work. Discover how everyday moments can become places of purpose and God's presence and learn how to walk with Jesus in the middle of your real, daily life. --------------- Ephesians 6:1-9 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 "that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. 5 Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. 9 Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

Longing for a love story that doesn't just live on the page but shows up in your real life? With so many marriages under strain, it's natural to look for a steady blueprint that brings joy and lasting strength. In this week's teaching, we explore what Paul had to say about humble lives and sacrificial love. These aren't distant ideas. They're practical patterns that can reshape a marriage and brighten the whole arc of a life, reflecting the greatest love story of all: Christ and His church. Listen in and discover how this divine design can push back the darkness and bring true light into your relationships. ------------------ Ephesians 5:22-33 22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. 25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Feeling overwhelmed by the darkness in the world? In this teaching from Ephesians, discover how the early Christians transformed a brutal Roman culture with the light of Christ—and how we can do the same today. Learn how being driven by delight, embracing our differences, and living with grace empowers us to push back the darkness in our lives and communities. --------------------- Ephesians 5:1-21 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not become partners with them; 8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Awake, O sleeper,     and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." 15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.  

Have you ever felt like the biggest challenges to your faith come from the world around you? The book of Ephesians invites us to look a little closer—because sometimes, the real struggle starts within our own hearts. In this week's teaching, we see how the Apostle Paul calls us to leave behind old habits and step fully into the new life we have in Christ. Discover how living with unity and purity can transform not just our lives, but the way the world sees the wisdom of God through His church. ----------------------- Ephesians 4:17-32 17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. 25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. 26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil. 28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. 29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

What comes to mind when you hear the word church? For many, it's not always positive. In a world that often sees the church as hypocritical or judgmental, how can we reflect the true love and unity of Christ? Pastor Austin from King's Cross Church unpacks Paul's words in Ephesians, showing how unity through love and maturity through diversity can transform the church into a beacon of hope in a divided world. ----------------- Ephesians 4:1-16 1 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. 8 Therefore it says, "When he ascended on high he led a host of captives,     and he gave gifts to men." 9 (In saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? 10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Feeling distant from God or stuck in your prayer life? In this week's teaching, we learn how the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 can lead you to a Jesus-centered soul and a Jesus-shaped life. Discover how true prayer transforms your heart and draws you into the fullness of God's love and grace. ---------------------------- Ephesians 3:14-21 14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

What's the greatest plot twist in history? Paul's letter to the Ephesians reveals God's surprising plan: Jesus, the unexpected Messiah, conquers sin and death in a way no one saw coming. This week's teaching from Ephesians 3 explores how that revelation reshapes the Church's mission—calling us to unity, hope, and a deeper faith in a divided world. Listen in and discover how this truth can transform your faith and your life today. ------------------------ Ephesians 3:1-13 1 For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, 3 how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. 4 When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. 7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. 13 So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.

Have you ever felt like you don't belong? In this week's teaching from Ephesians, Paul shows how Jesus tears down walls, turning outsiders into family and strangers into brothers and sisters. Discover the healing, unity, and belonging we find in Christ—a truth just as powerful today as it was then. ---------------- Ephesians 2:11-22 One in Christ 11 Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called "the uncircumcision" by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Feeling like the world is beyond repair? In this week's teaching, we dive into Ephesians 2 to reveal why our hearts and the world are "dead, defiant, and doomed," and why human solutions—politics, education, even religion—fall short. Hear how the Gospel brings life, hope, and transformative grace through faith in Jesus. ----------------------------- Ephesians 2:1-10 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Has your faith ever felt more like a checklist than a life-changing relationship? In this week's teaching, we explore the second part of Ephesians 1 to uncover why God's promises can feel distant and how to truly experience His power. Discover how faith in Jesus and love for His church bring assurance, joy, and a deeper walk with God. ---------------------------------- Ephesians 1:15-23 15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

Searching for a joy that lasts through every trial? In this week's teaching from our new Ephesians series, discover how Paul's words—written from prison—reveal the secret to unshakable joy. Learn what it means to be chosen, redeemed, and sealed in Christ, and how these truths give you an eternal identity and inheritance that can anchor your soul and fill your heart with praise, no matter life's challenges. --------------------------------- Ephesians 1:1-14 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Spiritual Blessings in Christ 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and things on earth in him. 11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.