GOD REVEALED – A New Testament Journey (PART 6)Esimerkki

Ephesians – Pushing Limits True accomplishment can only be achieved by pushing limits, venturing beyond comfort zones, and often, as in the Ephesians’ case, maintaining fruitful lives in the midst of persecution. We see strings of emphasis and superlatives such as 'exceedingly', 'abundantly', 'above all', 'filled with all the fullness of God', etc. God is pushing limits in order to bless us. And He is empowering us to push limits to maximize on receiving the blessings. Glorious Destiny Aligning our goals toward achieving the destiny and experiencing God’s “incomparably great power“ involves getting the ”eyes of our heart,” or our spiritual perception, awakened and enlightened (Eph 1:18-19). Perfect Harmony This mystery is that, through the gospel, the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus (3:6). Our churches may look disjointed and misaligned with God’s purpose. But from the big picture perspective, there are the “remnant” – those few functional “living stones” in the churches that work across the globe to form the true “body of Christ” – who are moving forward to achieve His big purpose. Boundless Capacity Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Eph 3:20). What a promise - God’s ability filling our capacity beyond the wildest imagination. God’s power on overdrive! What are some conditions to leverage God’s “power that works in us”? • Stand steadfastly (6:13-14): As warriors donning the full “armor of God,” it is crucial to blend in where possible but more important to stand our ground without compromise; to be flexible yet firm. • Speak fearlessly (6:19, 4:15, 5:19): With boldness, yet with diplomacy; in truth, yet with love; directly, yet with a positive twist. • Pray unceasingly: In the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and keep praying for all the Lord’s people (6:18). Can we stand amidst the most extenuating circumstances? Do we “speak the truth in love” even when very upset? How does “perfect love cast out fear” (1 John 4:18)? How can we speak to each other in psalms? What are some habits we need to develop to enable us to pray at all times? Have we emptied ourselves enough to be FILLED with ALL the FULLNESS of GOD?