Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 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, 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.

Philippians 2:12-18 

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 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, 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. Philippians 2:14-16

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 2:12-18 where Paul exhorts us to follow Christ's example to be humble. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V13: God works in the hearts and lives of believers to "will and to work for his good pleasure."  Will is defined as a transitive verb where action is ordered, decreed or ordained. As such the text shares that in the hearts and minds of believers, God renews our mind (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:23), and it is implied that this is how God wills and works through our spiritual disciplines (prayer, corporate worship, fellowship with other believers, daily study of His Word, etc.) and the Holy Spirit.  This raises a key question whether free will exists or not, and on this topic I would encourage you to explore this interview with John Piper on DesiringGod.com.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Given how Christ has ascended to sit at the right hand of God and reigns over all (vv9-11), Paul exhorts us (v12) to "work out" our salvation "with fear and trembling."  Such a pursuit implies reverent fear of fear of God that drives us into His arms and to abide in Him lest we fall away or not please Him for being lukewarm (Revelation 3:16). See this interview with John Piper on DesiringGod.com for how fear of God acts as a preservative against sin. Since the Fall (Genesis 3), people are prone to seek their own selfish desires and it is only through the process of sanctification where God aligns our desires with His.  As such we are prone to grumble and complain - and Paul shares in v14 that we should not.  If we pursue Him, His ways and desires, then we should not grumble and complain that He wills and works in our hearts to do things that please Him.  Paul's hope is that v15 we act in such a way that we are a light to others (in a dark world) that we draw them closer to Christ.  V16a: He shares how "holding fast to the word of life" - scripture - equips us to be a light.  v16b-18: pursuit is not run in vain but is done with a glad heart where we rejoice in the pursuit.       
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid grumbling and complaining.  Claim the promise that God works in our hearts and lives to align our thoughts and ways with Him, allowing us to be seen as righteous in His eyes and to rejoice and be glad living for Him. Follow the example of Paul who allowed himself to be poured out as a living sacrifice for Him.  Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, hold fast to the word of life, and be a light to others. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for my salvation, for working in my heart and life, and for the mercies that never cease and are new every morning.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Philippians 2:1-11 

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:5-8

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 2:1-11 where Paul exhorts us to follow Christ's example to be humble. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Paul uses a rhetorical statement/question in v1 that "if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy," we should then follow Christ's example.  Of course there are are these things in Christ!  We are encouraged for SO many reasons - with one key reason that God provides us the Holy Spirit who is in us as a Helper (John 14:26). We do get comfort knowing that we can never be separated from His love (Romans 8:38-39). We have a God that knows everything we experience because He took on human form - He does sympathize with us (Hebrews 4:15).  Vv5-8: Christ is our example of humility.  Vv9-11: Because Christ was humble and followed the will of God, for the sake of all humanity through all of redemptive history, took on flesh then died for us...because of all this, Jesus reigns in Heaven at the right hand of God. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Paul - as a disciple maker of the church in Philippi, and one of the world's foremost disciple-makers - is made joyful by believers who...in light of v1 that we do have these things, v2 seek the same mind and desires of Christ.  V3: Unlike those who preach with selfish ambition (see Philippians 1:17), we are called to be like Christ who is humble.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid selfish ambition or your own glory.  Claim the promise that we have a God that sympathizes with us and we will never be separated from His love.  Follow the example of Christ and His humility.  Be humble and love and serve others.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your humility and the example You provide, and for living in my heart and life to give me not just my salvation, but also mercies that never cease and hope.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God.

Philippians 1:19-30 

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. Philippians 1:27-28

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 1:19-30 where Paul shares how he is torn whether to die and go to Heaven to be with Christ, or live and serve others in his ministry.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V19: The Holy Spirit is our helper - see John 14:26 - and seals/guarantees our salvation or deliverance from the sting of sin and death as Christ has already won this battle.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V19 - prayers of others are effective to aid us in our time of need - see also James 5:16b. V20: We exist to glorify God and to bring Him all praise, honor and glory. Vv20-21: We should be courageous and live boldly for Him because whether we live or die, we can never be separated from His love and He is saving a place for us in Heaven. Vv22-26: Knowledge of God, prayers, and the Holy Spirit will renew our mind (see also Romans 12:2) and convict our hearts with His will for our lives as Paul expresses confidence that "[he] know[s] that [he] will remain and continue with [the church of Philippi], for [their] progress and joy in the faith, so that in [him] [they] may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of [his] coming to [them] again."  Vv27-28: Believers are called to be "worthy of the gospel of Christ,"  implying that we must deliver value or bear fruit.  Examples provided by Paul of bearing fruit include church unity and loving God and others (being a light) despite persecution or disagreements inside the church.  Whatever suffering we experience is for His sake so that Christ can be seen in us as we gain His strength in our weakness - see also 2 Corinthians 12:9.     
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that with suffering God's grace is sufficient and that His power is made perfect in our weakness.  Follow the example of Paul who embraced His imprisonment and suffering to advance the gospel.  Know and trust God to have Him renew your mind to understand His will for your life when torn about what to do as Paul was. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You demonstrating Your power in my weakness and for renewing my mind to better understand Your will for my life.  You are knowledge and wisdom and truth.  Thank You also for the assurance of my salvation, and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.

Philippians 1:12-18 

Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Philippians 1:18

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 1:12-18 where Paul describes how his imprisonment has advanced the gospel while warning against using the gospel for "selfish ambition." Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V18: Regardless of whether the Word is preached for His glory or for selfish ambition, God is at work and He is in control.  There is a mystery here but we can rest in how He reigns.  This is not the only circumstance where God uses broken sinful and broken people to advance His plan as part of the broad arc of His redemption story.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv12-13: God uses all of our circumstances for good and His glory - see also Romans 8:28.  In this case, Paul describes how his imprisonment has not stopped efforts to proclaim the gospel.  V14: Paul's bold efforts to share the gospel while imprisoned encourage and motivate other believers to to be bold in their efforts to proclaim the gospel "without fear."  Vv15-17: While some believers use Paul's imprisonment for good and out of love, some do it "from envy and rivalry" and for "selfish ambition..."thinking to afflict" Paul.  Believers should be aware, teachers in particular, that their role is to preach the Word for His good and glory - not for any personal gain, although one is blessed using God-given gifts for His glory.    
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid using selfish ambition to proclaim the gospel.  Claim the promise that God is at work in all circumstances - including our own suffering and trials.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You always working in my life, even in suffering, trials, and difficulties.  I know that I can never be separated from Your love!  Thank You Jesus!  Thank You also for my salvation and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

 

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Philippians 1:1-11 

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 1:1-11 where Paul shares his gratitude for the church in Philippi and he describes how they remain in his prayers. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God designed the local church and knit its members together for a purpose, it is a blessing to its members, and we should be thankful as Paul is (v3) for the local churches where we have built relationships and experienced blessings because of these relationships as they have provided (out of love) support, encouragement, sharpening, etc. God is at work in all believers (v6) and this work (sanctification) will continue until glorification when we are called Home to Heaven and will meet Jesus face to face.  Vv9-11 describes how Christ and the Holy Spirit fills us, renews us, and we bear fruit for His glory. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: The relationship we have with other believers is a stronger bond than we have even with family members as we all share rebirth through our Heavenly Father and this is the most important relationship in all our lives. Through this common bond, believers share (v7) grace, sufferings, and "defense and confirmation of the gospel."  The implication here is that we proclaim the gospel that we are defending and confirming.  Paul prays (v9) that the church in Philippi grows in its love both of Christ and of others - the latter of which is an overflow of love of God.  As we grow the prayer is not just of love but as we know God more, He will renew our minds and give us greater alignment and discernment of His will for our lives (vv9-11) - see also Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:23.        
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that God is at work in your heart and life and progressively making you more like Him until you meet Him face to face when He brings You home. Follow the example of Paul and express gratitude for the local church, and pray, support, and encourage one another.  Know God, be renewed, and bear fruit for His glory.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for the local church and how You made divine appointments with my brothers and sisters in Christ to support, encourage, pray for, etc. one another - what a blessing!  Thank You Jesus!  Thank You also for my salvation and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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.

Ephesians 6:10-20 

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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. Ephesians 6:10-12

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 6:10-20 where Paul describes believers are to equip and defend themselves against spiritual warfare.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God does not leave us unprotected in spiritual warfare - He equips us and we also have the assurance that the battle is already won.  We are armed just as Jesus was armed during His time with His earthly ministry.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv10-12: It is only through God that we can defend against "the schemes of the devil" and "against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."  We are to be strong "in the strength of his might" - not in our own strength.  Vv13-18: Describes how God equips how believers are given "the whole armor of God" to be equipped for spiritual warfare - we are able to "withstand" and "stand firm."  The belt of truth - based on His Word - helps us defend in the same way Jesus defended Himself in the wilderness - see also Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13. The breastplate of righteousness is imputed righteousness through the doctrine of justification.  Believers are righteous in God's eyes and not condemned to death which is "the wages of sin" (Romans 6:23).  We have the peace of God, a peace that surpasses understanding which "guard[s] [our] hearts and...minds in Christ Jesus" - see Philippians 4:7. We have the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation - faith gives us the assurance that God is always at work and that regardless of what is thrown at us God will never leave or forsake us.  Our salvation is sealed and guaranteed. We also have the Holy Spirit in us, His Word, and we have prayer.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid thinking you can defeat Satan in your own strength.  Claim the promise that God equips us and the battle is already won.  Follow the example of Jesus who relied on the same defenses that God gives us to defeat sin and death.  We are to be alert, and to put on the "whole armor of God," including prayer not just for ourselves but for all the saints....that we boldly "proclaim the mystery of the gospel."

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for equipping me to defeat sin and death.  I know that You will never leave or forsake me and that my salvation is sealed and guaranteed.  Thank You Jesus!  Thank You also for my salvation and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

[A]s bondservants of Christ [do] the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free.

Ephesians 6:5-9 

[A]s bondservants of Christ [do] the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man,  knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. Ephesians 6:6b-8

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 6:5-9 where Paul describes the Godly employer-employee relationship.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V9: Both the employee and the employer are to acknowledge that both serve the Lord as all of creation exists for His glory.  Christ is the Master and reigns over all - He does not care your position or status is and that of His commands apply to everyone equally.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Both the employee and employer are to view their relationship as serving the Lord - serving Him "with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart...and as bondservants of Christ."   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Employees are to avoid seeking to please man and employers are to avoid threatening behavior and harshness towards the employee.  Both the employee and employer are to claim the promise that "whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord." See also Colossians 3:23. Follow the example of Christ who was perfectly obedient to the will of the Father.  Love and serve God and love and serve others.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for my job and for providing for me and for my family.  Thank You also for my salvation and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

 

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:1-4 

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 6:1-4 where Paul describes the Godly family, including roles for parents and for children .  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: All discipline and instruction is from the Lord - He has a specific design and intent.  Broadly speaking God seeks disciples who love, serve and please Him as we exist for His glory.  We are also all given a mission in the Great Commission to "go out and make disciples of all nations...teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Children are given two commands, one to obey their parents, and two to honor their parents.  The text for the second command includes a reference to the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), specifically the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12) where there is not just a command but a promise if the command is followed: "that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you."  Believers must keep in mind that this promise is a general principle vs an absolute guarantee (such as salvation).  For more on this, see this interview with John Piper from DesiringGod.com.  Fathers are commanded to not provoke their children to anger, but to raise them up according to God's discipline and instruction.  We are to teach and model Christ and spiritual disciplines.  We are also to discipline children - see also this resource for more details on Biblical discipline.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid provoking children to anger (keeping in mind they are often likely to see Godly discipline as wrong and be angry).  Children can claim the promise of a stable and blessed live based on honoring of their mother and father.  Follow the example of Christ who modeled Godly obedience as both the Son and the Father with His believers as children of God. Love God and love others as the most important commandments and be obedient to God's commands for children and parents.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, thank You for modeling Godly parenting as both the Son and the Father.  Thank You also for my salvation and for the mercies and blessings You pour out for me every day.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way[.]

Psalm 37:23 and Proverbs 3:5-6 

 The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way[.] Psalm 37:23

I pause my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon - to examine text used by my Friday morning men's group: Psalm 37:23 and Proverbs 3:5-6 - text that describes how our lives' direction (both short and long term) should be based on His guidance.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Psalm 37:23 shares that the literal and figurative steps of a man are "established by the Lord," meaning God brought the steps into existence.  It also means that the steps, movement and arc of our lives are all under the sovereign direction of God.  Indeed all of humanity is God's creation and He reigns over all the details of our lives - there is no happenstance and God's plans cannot be thwarted (see also Job 42:2, Proverbs 19:21).  Proverbs 3:5-6 describe how God makes our paths straight IF we acknowledge Him.  This acknowledgement must include a surrender to Him as our Lord (He reigns and we exist for His glory) and Savior. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Key to Psalm 37:23 is the back end of the text "when he delights in his way."  This refers to how God directs our steps based on our delight of Him.  Man (including believers who are tempted and fall into temptation) can delight in Satan's ways.  This is a very deep topic worthy of further exploration and the debate is over the extent to which people truly have free will and what is the extent of human responsibility.  See this resource on this debate.  While there is some mystery on this question one thing IS clear - that God's ways and thoughts are not our own (Isaiah 55:8) BUT God will renew our minds to align with His thoughts and ways if we delight in Him and seek Him through daily study and meditation on His Word (see Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:22–24).        
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We are to avoid seeking our own glory and avoid planning outside of God's wisdom and direction. Claim the promise that God will renew our minds so that we can align with His desires. Seek, love and trust Him. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that reveals Himself to me and renews my mind to align with Your thoughts, ways, and desires so that I can more like You and please You.  Thank You Jesus for these blessings and also for my salvation. I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

 

[L]et each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Ephesians 5:22-33 

[L]et each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Ephesians 5:33

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 5:22-33 where Paul describes roles of wives and husbands for Godly marriages.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Because we cannot read this (or any other text) in isolation from other text, we must acknowledge that in the Creation story (Genesis) God created man and woman and He created marriage with an intent - a Godly design for marriage (see also Genesis 2:24).  The text today lays out principles for a Godly marriage - for additional perspective on Godly marriage (including the complementarian vs egalitarian view) see also John Piper here and here.  I come down on the side of being a complementarian. Vv23-24 shares that the husband is the head of the wife, Christ is the head of the church (and its Savior), and the church submits to Christ. So, wives should submit in everything to their husbands in the same way that the church submits to Christ.  The definition of submission is worth exploring - here is John Piper on his view of "submit in everything."  Vv25-27: Christ loved (still does) the church and "gave himself up for her that he might sanctify [and justify] her."  Vv29-30: Christ "nourishes and cherishes...the church, because we are members of his body." Via the Holy Spirit, Christ is in us and at work in us, and believers are the church - see also 1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19-20, and Ephesians 2:21-22.  The model for Godly marriage follows that of Christ as head of the church and how the church submits to Christ and husbands are the head of the wife, therefore, wives are to submit to their husbands. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Wives are to submit to their husbands and husbands are to love their wives (as Christ loved the church). Love and respect in marriage are highlighted in vv32-33.  Husbands are to love their wives and wives are to respect their husbands. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid seeing marriage from any other perspective than as created by God with a specific design.  For those who are married, claim the promise that God created and designed Your marriage for His glory.  Husbands and wives in marriage are to follow the model of Christ as head of church and the husband as the head of the wife, and to love and respect per v33.    

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that has created my marriage and works in my marriage.  Thank You Jesus and also for my salvation. I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light.

Ephesians 5:1-21 

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Ephesians 5:11-14

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 5:1-21 where Paul warns us against various sin and exhorts us to imitate God and to walk in the light to "expose" sin.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V1: God is Father and believers are His children - adopted into His family - see also John 1:12-13.  Just as children model their behavior after their parents, we are imitate our Heavenly Father. V2: Christ loved (still does) us and died for us - His sacrifice was pleasing to God (obedient to the Father's will). V5: Those who willfully demonstrate a pattern of sin have no inheritance (salvation) from Christ, and V6 instead are subject to His wrath upon judgement day. Vv8-14: Christ is described as Light and believers are children of Light and our actions must reflect light as we are to be a light to others (exposing sin - not as judgement but as contrast to the world of darkness) - see also Matthew 5:14-16, John 8:12, 9:5. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: There is much sin and darkness in the world and Paul outlines this in V3 (sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness), V4 (filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking), V17 (foolishness), and V18 (drunkenness and debauchery).  Paul's exhortation is that we "[t]ake no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them (see above)."  Believers are warned to not be deceived (with empty words v6) and not to become partners with those who demonstrate willful patterns of sin (v7).  This of course does not mean that we avoid unbelievers but instead that are careful not to allow their patterns of sin to influence us - which should cause us to limit how we spend our time with them.  Broadly, in light of sin, we are to make "the best use of the time, because the days are evil," echoing 1 Peter 5:8.  To make the best use of our time, we should understand God's will (see Romans 12:2), be filled with the Holy Spirit (God's Word, prayer, etc.) (v18) and to address other believers in psalms, hymns, and songs (v19) - our interactions with others should be pleasing (dare we say harmonious) in the same way.  Finally (vv20-21) we are to give thanks always (see also 1 Thessalonians 5:18) and to submit to one another (believers) out of reverence to Christ.        
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We are to avoid being "yoked" to sinful influences in our lives.  Claim the promise we are children of God and follow the example of our Heavenly Father Christ.  We should seek His will via renewal of the mind and walk in the light - attracting others to Christ through the light of Christ that shines through us.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that is Light in a world full of sin and darkness.  Thank You for being the Light of the World and for adopting me into Your family allowing Your light to shine through me...and for my salvation. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Ephesians 4:25-32 

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 4:25-32 where Paul furthers his expectation the believers live based on the new life they have been given (rebirth/regeneration).  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V30: The Holy Spirit seals believers "for the day of redemption" when either Christ returns or we are called Home.  See also Ephesians 1:13.  V32: Christ forgave (and continues to do so - see Lamentations 3:22-23) and because we are created in His image we are to forgive as Jesus did (and does).  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv25-29, 31: Specific sin is called out, including falsehoods, anger, theft, corrupting talk, bitterness, wrath, slander, and malice. Conversely, we are encouraged to speak truth, do honest work, share with those in need, build up others with our words, give grace, and to be kind, tenderhearted and to forgive others.  These are fruits of the Spirit, similar to Galatians 5:22-23 - evidence that we have "taken off our hold self."   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid the sins listed in vv25-29 and 31 as these give opportunity to the devil to gain a foothold.  Claim the promise that our salvation is guaranteed and sealed by the Holy Spirit.  Love God and love others - and by doing so, take off the old self and put on the new self.

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God guarantees and seals my salvation - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

[B]e renewed in the spirit of your minds, and...put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

Ephesians 4:17-24 

[B]e renewed in the spirit of your minds, and...put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:23

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 4:17-24 where Paul pivots from discussing how church leaders equip us to both understand His Word but also grow in spiritual maturity.  In the text today, Paul sets and expectation that this maturity bears fruit that old ways of life are gone, replaced by more Godly ways.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V24: God is true righteousness and He is holy.  We are to be holy because He is holy - see also Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:16. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv17-19: Unbelievers minds suffer from futile thinking - believing in and worshiping false gods.  They are darkened (with hardened hearts) in their understanding because they don't have the light of God in them and do not see Him when He reveals Himself (although they have no excuse in Creation - Romans 1:20-23).  As a result, they have "given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity."  Vv20-23: Believers on the other hand, do have right thinking (assuming growing maturity in Christ).  They have already seen heart and life change in their own lives and continue to pursue Him as He sanctifies us and helps us shed our old ways of living - we are "renewed in the spirit of [our] minds."  See also Romans 12:2.        
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid hardness of heart and callousness.  Claim the promise that Christ renews our hearts and minds and creates a new self through heart and life change.  Acknowledge and confess sin and accept Christ is Your Savior.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that renews minds and regenerates new life through heart and life change.  I have seen Your hand in my life - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings nor how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 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[.]

Ephesians 4:8-16 

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 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[.] Ephesians 4:11-13

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 4:9-16 where Paul shares how God equips believers with church leaders that are able to discern and teach the gospel as it is intended - nothing more and nothing less.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv9-10: Christ both descended to the grave, then rose and then "ascended far above all the heavens" so that He would "fill all things."  I am reminded of Colossians 1:15-17 where Paul writes how all things are created through Him, for Him, and He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."  Christ reigns and is in all things and per Romans 8:28 "all things work together for good."  Vv11-13: Christ then gave us "the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ," so that we can attain "the stature of the fullness of Christ."  This is a stunning measure and an incredible thing that God would help us achieve such "stature" and "fullness."   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv14-16: We are given such resources - "the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers" - so that we can experience spiritual maturity and move from being a disciple to being a disciple maker.  We also are to mature to discern false teaching, and to endure through suffering, trials, etc. We are to build our house on the rock of Christ.  See also Matthew 7:24-27, Luke 6:47-49.  We are also part of the broader church where each of us has vital function in the Great Commission to bring the gospel to all nations.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid spiritual stagnation where you are tossed about by "every wind of doctrine, human cunning, and craftiness in deceitful schemes."  Claim the promise that God equips us to attain unity of faith in the church, and spiritual maturity and the stature and fullness of Christ.  Follow the example of those in your church who were once disciples but are now disciple makers.  Grow in your knowledge and love of Him.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who equips us in our journey with Christ so that we don't experience spiritual stagnation - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings nor how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

1 Timothy 1:1-11, 3:14-16 

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

I pause my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon - to review 1 Timothy 1:1-11, 3:14-16 as this is our text for Sunday school class tomorrow morning.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: 1:1: God commands us in our roles, and in Paul's case to be an apostle. 1:2: Grace, mercy and peace are from God.  From John 1:1, we know that God is the Word, so by extension, 1:9 implies that the law is for everyone - not just the just but for sinners - because we all sin (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8). 3:16: Faith in God is full of mystery - we rely on Him to reveal what it is He seeks for us to know about Him.  We also don't know how He works but that He is always at work (Isaiah 55:8, Romans 8:28). 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: 1:3-7: Many desire to be teachers of the law (God's Word), yet they teach false doctrine by "promoting speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is faith."  1:4, 11: Believers are stewards of God's Word - we are to guard the Truth carefully by having a very good understanding (1:7) of the Word through study and revelation from God.  3:14: If you are teacher of the Word, you should be encouraged by Paul's words of guidance to stand on truth. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid swerving from a pure heart, good conscience, and a sincere faith.  Claim the promise that God is always at work for good. Follow the example of Paul who sought to be a good steward of God's Word.  Abide in Him to seek and maintain a "pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who gives me the Word and reveals Himself to me so that I can maintain "a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." You also give me salvation, and mercies that never cease - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings nor how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

...[N]o human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

James 3:1-12 

...[N]o human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:8

I pause my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon to review text discussed by my Friday AM men's group - James 3:1-12.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V8: God alone can tame the tongue.  Our tongue is driven by our heart and our heart is dark and sinful without God.  Only God can transform our heart and life to align with His thoughts and desires.  He sanctifies (makes us more like Him) us, and cleanses us from the inside out.  See also Psalm 51:10 and Matthew 23:25-26.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V1: Teachers (and other leadership positions within the church) are held to a higher degree of accountability than other church members. These are positions of influence.  V2: Pivots to how all people, including teachers, are apt to sin and stumble and James uses our words and speech as an example - in the text today he uses metaphors (bridle/horse, rudder/ship, fire/forest) of the tongue as being powerful and both positive and negative. V8: This is key because we need to understand that our sin, including our speech cannot be made more pure by human action.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid using speech and words to hurt.  Claim the promise that God alone transforms hearts and lives from the inside out - surrender to Christ as Lord and Savior.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who has transformed my heart and life to think and act more like You.  I know this is You alone.  Thank You Jesus for such a work that I know continues...and also for my salvation, and the blessings You pour out every day for me.  I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

...[W]alk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:1-7 

...[W]alk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 4:1-7  where Paul urges unity in the church.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Throughout the text vv1-7 God is represented as Himself (the Father), the Son, and the Holy Spirit - He is three identities in one. Attributes of God include - per v2 - humility, gentleness, patience.  V3 continues by describing Him as peaceful and seeking harmony among those in the church.  V4: He is hope.  Vv4-6: He is singular - there is none like Him.  V6: He is sovereign - "over all and through all and in all."  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V1: Paul is both a literal prisoner - he is subject to house arrest in Rome, and he also captive/a slave to God (the latter of which is a good thing).  Vv1-3: Believers are called to follow the example of Him per the attributes described in v2 with an eye towards ensuring unity and harmony in the church.  Unity and harmony are key - otherwise the mission suffers.  V7: Although God is described as singular - God's image, likeness, and spiritual gifts are in each believer.  We are then ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) for Christ both representing Him and serving His mission - which is to bring others to Him and to bring Him glory. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid unsettled conflict in the church.  Claim the promise that the church is one body with many members all working together and all equally important - none are less important than others. We should follow the example of Christ who was humble, gentle, patient, and sought unity/harmony (see also Galatians 5:22).   

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who is worthy of all praise, honor and glory.  Even though You reign over all, You came to earth as a lowly baby and then suffered and died for all of humanity so that they can call upon Your name as Lord.  What a portrait of humility!  Thank You for your humility and Your demonstration of love, gentleness, patience, etc....and for my salvation, and the blessings You pour out every day for me.  I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

[I pray that]...you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Ephesians 3:14-21 

[I pray that]...you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17-19

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 3:14-21 where Paul - from prison - thinks not of himself - and prays for the church in Ephesus.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V15: Every family is named from God - as Creator his imprint and image is on every human being.  This text calls to mind Psalm 139:13-16. V16: God's glory is a treasure - that we should treasure Him.  Vv18-19: Paul describes God's love as immense in metaphorically unlimited physical dimensions - in breadth, length, height, and depth - it surpasses knowledge.  Vv20-21: While we may feel Paul's prayer is seemingly impossible, Paul describes God as "able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us[.]"   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V14-19: Paul is in prison yet He prays for the church in Ephesus.  This prayer is the epitome of the 2nd greatest commandment to love others - denying self and praying for others that they (a) "be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, (b) "may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge," (c) and that they "may be filled with all the fullness of God."  This is a powerful prayer indeed that someone may both know and be filled with the fullness of Christ.  This is a BIG (seemingly impossible this side of Heaven) prayer - one of course that I suspect God likes because it is a BIG ask that only He can fill and that He be loved and treasured is what He seeks. It is the first and most important commandment.  We should pray this prayer for non-believers to come to Christ and for all believers to have this love.       
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid underestimating God's love and power.  Claim the promise that You can never be separated from His love.  Follow Paul's example to love others so much that You pray such BIG prayers for them.  Pray for others!

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God whose love surpasses knowledge and is beyond comprehension.  And You loved me while still sinning and hostile to You....Thank You for this love, for my salvation, and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

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, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.

Ephesians 3:7-13 

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, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. Ephesians 3:8-10

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 3:7-13 where Paul pivots from the theme of unity between Jews and Gentiles to how God's grace worked within Paul to preach to the Gentiles to reveal the mystery of God and the gospel.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V7: God's grace is a gift.  Vv8-9: Christ's riches are unsearchable - similar in meaning to how they are a mystery and only revealed through the Holy Spirit.  We cannot fully fathom these riches on this side of heaven.  V9: God created all things.  V10: The church exists to share the "manifold wisdom of God." V11: God's eternal purpose was realized in His Son Jesus. V12: Christ is accessible and approachable - He wants a personal relationship with us.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv7-8: Paul recognizes that God gave him the spiritual gift to minister to the Gentiles and how he humbly accepted this gift. Vv9-10: Paul's mission is described as bringing "to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places."  V12: Believers have "boldness and access with confidence" to Jesus.  V13: During his time under house arrest in Rome, although he was able to write letters (including Ephesians) and receive visitors, he did not enjoy freedom of movement.  As such, he wrote to the young church to encourage them despite how he was unable to be with them.  He was suffering on their behalf just as Jesus died for believers to be saved.    
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid arrogance that may lead you (if you are a church leader) to believe that you are anything but appointed and gifted by God for His purpose.  Claim the promise that God holds all things together and has an eternal purpose that is good.  Follow the example of Paul and serve humbly - loving God and others.  Approach God with confidence and live boldly for Him.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who not only created all things, but is in all things, and holds all things together.  You also are at work in all things for good.  I can rest in how my salvation is secure. Thank You for my salvation, for the peace that surpasses understand, and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 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.

Ephesians 3:1-6 

When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 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. Ephesians 3:4-5

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 3:1-6 where Paul continues to emphasize the theme of unity between Jews and Gentiles.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V3: The mystery of God is made known through His revelation.  He hardens and softens the hearts of those according to His will - this is certainly a mystery - that He choose some to be saved and others not to be saved.  We should also be aware that there is both general and special revelation.  V5: This revelation of Christ was not made known to Israel in the Old Testament, but was through the apostles (including Paul) through the Holy Spirit.  V6: The mystery of Christ includes how Gentiles are "fellow heirs" of the Jews, "members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus[.]"  The text reinforces chapter 2 where Paul emphasizes the unity of the church - Jews and Gentiles together form the church.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V1: Paul describes himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus.  Another way of describing this "captivity" is how scripture describes us as either slaves to sin or slaves to God.  Some may believe that they - on their own accord - can produce an enlightened mind that is free from sin, yet this is a fallacy and wrong thinking.  Only God and the Holy Spirit can do this.  Romans 12:2 describes how the mind can be renewed, and this renewal is by and for God as the text shares how once our minds are renewed we are aligned with God's will. God thoughts and ways are not like ours (Isaiah 55:8) but He will make them like His.  2 Corinthians 10:5 describes how we then take thoughts captive to "destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God."  V2: Paul also describes himself as a steward of God's grace - implying that such grace is something to used carefully and wisely - for use in sharing the Good News and for building up the church.       
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid thinking that our human efforts can produce righteousness - no, Christ alone saves and renews our minds.  We should claim the promise that all believers are heirs to a rich inheritance (eternal life) that is guaranteed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14).  We should follow the example of Paul and be a good steward of the grace given to us by God.  In return we should share the Good News, and through our testimony show grace to others by working with God and the Holy Spirit to save others. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who revealed Himself to me and gives me mercies that never cease and are new every morning.  Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.