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.    

Comment and discuss this post

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.  

Comment and discuss this post

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.

Comment and discuss this post

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.  

Comment and discuss this post

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).   

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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!

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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.

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.

Ephesians 2:11-22 

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.  Ephesians 2:19-21

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 2:11-22 where Paul emphasizes how Christ removed the "wall of hostility" between Jews and Gentiles and not only reconciled both to Christ, but to each other - bringing peace and unity.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv14-16: Christ is our peace - He died for Jews and Gentiles from all nations who believe, and reconciled not only both to Christ, but to each other - bringing peace and unity through the creation of the church.  He also abolished the Old Testament rituals - the ceremonial law.  Vv20-22: Christ is the cornerstone of the church, and the Holy Spirit knits the church together by living in each member of the church.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V12: Building on vv1-10 (see post yesterday on how we were all spiritually dead), Paul seeks for believers to understand that pre-salvation, we were "separated from Christ", alienated from the commonwealth of Israel," "strangers to the covenants of promise," and "having no hope and without God in the world." V13: God brought us near to Him - again not through our own efforts but through His death on the cross. Vv18-19: All who believe are united as one body with the same access to Him, and are "no longer strangers and aliens," "but are fellow citizens with the saints," "and members of the household of God[.]"  V22: God knits us together as a church and unites us through the Holy Spirit that lives in each of us.     
• 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 having no hope by remaining separated from God. Claim the promise that God brings all near who believe in Him, and unites us as a church.  We must remember our pre-salvation state and praise God for how He saved us and brought us near to Him.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who through Your death on the cross, saved us, brought us near to You, and united us together with the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit.  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.

...[God] raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:1-10 

...[God] raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:6-7

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 2:1-10 where Paul shares how believers were saved while still an enemy and hostile to Him, and not through our own efforts.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv4-8: God is rich in mercy and He has great love for believers such that despite how we were sinful and an enemy of Him (see also Romans 5:10), He reached down into the pit to save us.  Our salvation (1) includes being raised up with Jesus to be with Him where He is saving a place for us; (2) was done to demonstrate "the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus;" (3) was a gift from God; and (4) was done for us to do good works prepared in advance for us that we could (emphasized by repetition of the same description from v7) be the Light of Jesus for others to see.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Before accepting Jesus, all believers were spiritually dead and condemned - slave to sin. This is a horrible state for anyone - and believers should have mercy on those who doubt and seek to snatch them from the fire (Jude 22-23).  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid being dead in your sin - know Jesus and accept Him as Your Lord and Savior.  Claim the promise that God is saving a place for You in Heaven.  Follow the example of Paul who turned from His sin and allowed Christ to work through Him.  Remain humble as you should recognize that faith is a gift from God and to be used for His glory. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who is rich in mercy and great love as You saved me while sinful and hostile to Him.  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.

 

[I am praying that God] may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 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, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 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.

Ephesians 1:15-23 

[I am praying that God] may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 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, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 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. Ephesians 1:16-21

I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Ephesians 1:15-23 where Paul thanks the church at Ephesus for their faith and love of those in the church, and also prays for the church to have the wisdom to appreciate what their faith provides for them.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?:  V17: God is the source of wisdom and knowledge - all good and perfect gifts are from above (James 1:17) - we must pray that He help give us wisdom and knowledge.  Scripture gives us this wisdom and knowledge because it is the basis for our faith, and our relationship with Him.  He renews our minds through our knowledge of Him and aligns our thoughts and desires to be like His (Romans 12:2).  V18: God gives us hope and a rich inheritance - this same inheritance (e.g. eternal life, etc.) that is guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. Vv19-20: God gives us power that is "immeasurab[ly] great" and it is the same power that raised Christ from the dead and "seated him at [God's] right hand in the heavenly places." V21: God does not just reign - He does so at a level that humanity cannot fathom - God rules "far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named...." eternally.  V22: God put everything under Christ's feet and made Him head of the church and the church is His body.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv15-16: Paul thanks the church in Ephesus for their faith - once again - see post yesterday;  he also prays for them in vv17-23 that they have wisdom from God to appreciate what their faith provides to them. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Ultimately, as Revelation 2:4-5 points out, the faith of the church in Ephesus weakens and this happens to everyone - we must avoid weakened faith by remaining in Him and a focusing on spiritual disciplines of corporate worship, prayer, daily study of His Word, etc. We must claim the promise of our guaranteed rich inheritance in Christ. We should follow the example of those with faith and those who love God and others (most important commandments).  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God reveals Himself through Your Word and through the Holy Spirit who guides us and renews our mind. Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  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.

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, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it[.]

Ephesians 1:1-14 

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, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it[.] Ephesians 1:13-14

Today, I start a study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Specifically, my study today examines Ephesians 1:1-14 where Paul writes to the church in Ephesus to highlight how believers there should appreciate how they have been "blessed...in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places."  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V3: God has blessed believers "with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places[.]"  This is impossible to fully fathom on this side of heaven - blessed indeed!  V4: He chose "believers in [Christ] before the foundation of the world...[and views us as] holy and blameless before him."  We are guiltless and justified before Him!  V5: He "predestined us for adoption[.]"  God knows everything about us, including the sin that we will commit, yet He loves us and saves us!  Vv7-10: Expanding on vv5-6, Paul shares that we have "redemption" and "forgiveness," and these were provided as "grace" and he "lavished" these blessings upon us by "making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and things on earth in him."  Any one of these alone describe lavishness, but together is again - mind blowing.  Vv11-12: These spiritual blessings are described as an inheritance, planned in advance (predestined), so that believers "might be to the praise of His glory."  We exist for His glory - we should understand this and act accordingly.  V13-14: God sealed our salvation by providing the Holy Spirit that "guarantees...our inheritance until we acquire possession of it[.]"      
• What do we learn from the text about people?: V1: Paul describes himself as "an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God."  No one can claim that they accomplished faith through their own works - on the contrary it is Christ alone who saves.  Paul then describes the saints - believers - in Ephesus as faithful.  
• 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 how it is our own efforts that save us and that anything other than Christ is our highest treasure.  We should claim the promise of our guaranteed inheritance of the riches of Christ.  We should pray that we can be faithful as described by Paul for the church in Ephesus (keeping in mind that later this church would be described in Revelation as "falling").  We should pray that God gives us the power to appreciate spiritual blessings He bestows upon us and remain in Him.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who graciously and lavishly bless me beyond my comprehension - including how You save and guarantee an inheritance.  Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  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.

Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.

Psalm 115:3 

Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases. Psalm 115:3

I have have yet to identify my next study, so this morning I continue to use DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotion, which today examines how God is sovereign, is never trapped or coerced, and that He does what He pleases.  

Colossians 1:15-17 shares how God is the firstborn of creation, how all things were created by Him, through Him, for Him, and how He holds all things together.  The devotion shares how, unlike humanity, God is not "constrained," "backed into a corner," or "coerced." No, as the Psalmist writes, God does whatever pleases Him.  Even at the one point where one may think God does something that He does not want to do, scripture says otherwise - we are directed to Romans 8:32, Ephesians 5:2, and John 10:18 where scripture describes willingly gave up His own Son, how Christ's crucifixion was seen as "a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God," and how Christ's life was not taken from Him but He freely offered it as He (per the devotion) had "legions of angels at his disposal." On the contrary, Jesus was not trapped, but He looked beyond the cross, was "totally in charge," and was focused on "the joy set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2).  We must acknowledge how Jesus is sovereign and reigns over all matters in Heaven and on earth, while at the same time, He is abounding in grace and love, saving those who confess their sin and surrender to Christ as Lord. This is who God is...and more!         

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who is sovereign over all matters in heaven and on earth, and You know everything about me (including my sin!) - yet You are full of grace and mercy as You loved me while still a sinner and saved me. Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out every day for me.  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.