Ephesians begins with a gracious greeting to those in Ephesus, who have been faithful to the Lord Jesus. Within his courtesies however, Paul is sure to insert reminders of what it means to be a redeemed Christian. Speaking generally, he delivers instruction that we are to be "holy and without blame before Him in love…" After all, these spiritual blessings we've been given are not anything we've earned, or purchased, or deserve. But we are only accepted by glory of His grace, because it pleases Him. And our redemption came at a price much higher than anything in this world could afford – His blood. We were not original heirs but chosen in adoption to be sons by Jesus (vs. 5), and there is an expectation and a privilege to represent our Father in a holy way.
Paul goes on to point out through his prayers that there is always more maturing that we should undergo. God desires that we know him intimately. Do you have a situation for which you wonder if there is a solution? Remember that Jesus sits FAR above all principality, and power, and might and dominion…forever!
In other words, nothing exceeds his power. He rules it all. We should echo Paul's prayers in verses 17 and 18 for the REAL men in our churches – 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened.
Joey Hart
