Why does Paul write this letter? An important question to begin with and in chapter 1 we get a few clues. In the first few verses after the greeting we see the idea that we were predestined to be adopted into God's family. Theologians throughout the ages have debated the free will vs. predestination idea, and gone round and round with that. Why? Maybe I'm too simple, but to me, God is bigger than all that. He provided a way for fallen, sinful people to come to Him through Christ, and He has always known who would accept that offer. He is the One who provides the Holy Spirit that enables a fallen, sinful human being to come to faith in the first place.
In this chapter we learn that we are adopted in the family of God, that we have a rich inheritance, and that our inheritance has been earned by the blood of Jesus, providing forgiveness thanks to the lavish grace of God. Grace means undeserved favor. We have not and cannot earn our standing with God. Jesus has made the only way for us to be in right standing with an infinitely holy Creator.
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