|
- Ephesians opens with a single sentence, 12 verses long—an epic poem.
- We explore the art, beauty and thoughts that build our joy.
- We see the big picture which builds our interest.
- The hint of mystery motivates us to read on and find out where this is going!
|
|
- If someone says ‘please pray for me’ —they would not expect you to pray this kind of prayer!
- Yet once you understand it, it really is a remarkably powerful prayer for each one of us.
|
|
- The goal for this message is that you should fall in love with the way this story is told, which if you trust Jesus, is your story!
|
|
- Living out of this new identity will transform your life!
|
|
- Once again the poetry is so beautiful, and right at the center is a jewel — the song of peace.
- This centerpiece changes everything and turns hostile division into growth that defies our imagination.
|
|
- Paul’s concern that they might get discouraged by his own suffering leads him into an extraordinarily uplifting and motivating encouragement.
|
|
- Of all the prayers prayed over people in the Bible, this must be the pinnacle.
- This is such a good prayer to pray over one another!
|
|
- As Paul launches into the second half of Ephesians, he injects an extraordinarily compelling motivation,
- showing us how to copy and bring delight to our God.
|
|
- We can really deepen our relationship with God when we think of him as three persons.
- Knowing how each relates to us slightly differently can give us a richer experience of closeness.
|
|
- What is church? We look at a heaven’s eye view, a lower level view, and a ground-level view of what church actually is,
- and what it is not,
- and what the implications are for you and me.
|
|
- All of us suffer from the accusing inner voices of self-condemnation.
- The powers of darkness are constantly speaking lies into us.
- But victory from these voices is available and we can all experience the freedom that Jesus wants us to have.
|
|
- Enjoying and delighting in God is a core part of the Christian life.
- We all want more of it, but how do we get there?
- How can we have more?
|
|
- Misinterpretation of this passage has led to a top-down hierarchical church structure
- Most people just sat in their seats and did no more than give their money
- Every single part is needed for growth
|
|
- This passage speaks of a radical transformation of the church, from childhood to maturity, some time in the future.
- It certainly hasn’t happened yet, so is it going to? and if so, when and how?
|
|
- How do I live this new life? Not only does Paul explain the power, but he also lays out some very clear examples of this power in action in our daily activities.
|
|
- Seven parts of Ephesians open with the expression: ‘Walk...’ We look at the fifth, ‘Walk in love’ which is immediately followed by the two biggest threats to a loving community. Thankfully there is a way they can be overcome.
|
