NOTES for Eph 2:8-9

For a man who believed in Christ, life changes indeed, especially in the beginning: what was unbearably difficult (be good, honest, loving) - turns out suddenly possible (it's a pity that it becomes again difficult!). And all around is the same world, sinful men... Well, how can one not be proud, not be exalt himself here?

The apostle Paul is particularly addressing to such people, by reminding that they (and also we all!) deserved not at all this grace of God, that it is sent to us not for our "exploits", but rather for the expiatory volunteer victim -the Son of Man. And the faith, by which we accept this grace of salvation, is not also our merit, but God's present, because it is indeed He Who made us capable of believing and He is the One Who sent to us the Holy Spirit, That directs our faith to the right direction.

There is nothing for us to boast for, except God, because we owe Him all which is good in our life. And thus, we have no reasons and no rights to condemn those whom faith and works do not please us.