MESSAGE TEXT
Ephesians 1:15-23
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INTRODUCTION
Ruth Paxson wrote, "Paul, in one breath, as it were, has proclaimed the wonderful message of redemption according to the riches of His grace. He has told it out; now he must pray it in."
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Eugene Peterson calls Ephesians 1:15-23 a “resurrection prayer.” Paul wanted them to have more than a superficial understanding of who they were in Christ and how that gets lived out. There’s a brand-new dimension of resources that have opened up to you.
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The resources have always been there, but maybe not accessed in your life. Paul’s prayer is not that they would have power, but that they would recognize a power already theirs; that they wouldn’t get all these things, as much as recognize what they already have.
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PROPOSITION
There are many ways to organize and structure this passage and the entire first chapter of Ephesians for study and understanding.
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Way 1: Ephesians 1:1-23
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Enriched (v.1-14):with identity and value
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Enabled (v.15-17): through praise and prayer
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Enlightened (v.18):by your wealth and worth
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Empowered (v.19-23): to surrender and serve
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Way 2: Ephesians 1:15-23
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A Note of Thanksgiving (v.15-17): the flame was still burning bright.
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The Past Calling (v.18): trusting God and His plan to be my joy and stability.
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The Future Inheritance. (v.18): knowing who I am and all God has for me.
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The Present Power (v.19-23): greater than magic, death, and sin and addiction and triggers to go use.
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Way 3: Three Questions (Eph. 1:15-23)
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This passage prompts THREE LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS:
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What do I want to be known for? (v.15-17)
(What things do I want to characterize my life?)
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What do I want to be known as? (v.18-19a)
(What has God called me to?)
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Who do I want to know? (v.19b-23)
(Where does Christ stand in relationship to all power?)
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CONCLUSION
What is our congregational identity? The Ephesians were known for their "faith" and "love." What do you want to be known for?